Hotchkiss National Fish Hatchery
The river, the thin riparian areas along it, and the cliffs can provide some interesting birding, including Great Blue Heron, ducks, eagles, dippers, swifts, and wrens. The wet cliffs along the entrance could harbor interesting winter species, such as Winter Wren and Hermit Thrush. The trout in the hatchery are also an interesting attraction.
Restrictions: None
County: Delta
Attractions: interesting information on trout rearing when visitor center is open. Picnic area.
Directions: From Hotchkiss, go west three miles and turn south on CR 31.00. Take CR 31.00 1.5 miles to the end and go east on CR I.50. Go one mile on CR I.50 and look for the signs for the hatchery.
Alternate Directions: From Hotchkiss, drive west on CO 92 for 2.5 miles to CR 32 and turn left. Go south for 1.5 miles to Lazear Road and turn right. Go a half mile to Hatchery Road, turn left, and go down the hill to the hatchery.
Habitat: Lowland Riparian, Cliff Face, Stream
Dates of Access: Open all year
Hours: Dawn to dusk; visitor center more limited hours
Ownership: US Fish and Wildlife Service
Admission or Fees: Free
Parking: Gravel parking lot
Lodging: None
Handicapped: No
Handicapped Access: Limited
Delorme: 56 B3
ROC: 99 D1
Latitude: 38.7738
Longitude: -107.7723