About Us
Since 1871 the National Fish Hatchery system has been at work improving recreational fishing and restoring aquatic species that are in decline, at risk, and are important to the health of our aquatic systems. Across the country the network of National Fish Hatcheries work with states and tribes to conserve, restore and enhance the fish and aquatic resources of America for future generations.
Constructed in 1935, the Uvalde National Fish Hatchery was operated by the U.S. Department of Interior’s Bureau of Sport Fisheries and Wildlife. The original mission included the stocking of ranch ponds in southern Texas, as well as large reservoirs in New Mexico, Arizona, Oklahoma, and Kansas. Species raised at that time included largemouth bass, sunfish, and channel catfish. Historically, the hatchery has reared Florida-strain largemouth bass, Guadalupe bass, striped bass, paddle fish, Yaqui catfish, blue catfish, northern pike, walleye, Tilapia, and gar. Today the hatchery is operated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and focuses on propagation efforts to promote the recovery and or restoration of threatened and endangered species. Currently, the hatchery works with nine threatened or endangered species and raises channel catfish for recreational fishing.
Our Mission
Since 1871, National Fish Hatcheries have been applying science-based approaches to conservation challenges. We work with our partners and engage the public to conserve, restore, and enhance fish and other aquatic resources for the continuing benefit of the American people. Conservation is at the heart of what we do, and we recognize that we do this work for the American people–both the present generation who benefit today and future generations who will inherit our legacy of conserving America’s aquatic resources.
With the passing of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 the hatchery’s mission expanded towards restoration and mitigation stockings. Today the hatchery is operated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and focuses on propagation efforts to promote the recovery and or restoration of threatened and endangered species.
Our History
The hatchery was established in 1935, after a 100 acre land donation by the County of Uvalde. This donation came shortly after the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act of 1934, which allowed for the acceptance of land donations to be used for the protection, rearing, stocking, and increase of game supply. Construction began on October 1, 1935 under a Works Progress Administration (WPA) program, and was mostly complete in 1937, and operations began in 1938.
