(Released: April 09, 2020)

CONTACT: Molly McCarthy-Cunfer
Fisheries Center Supervisor
(907) 444-6030


Fisheries Centers Will Remain Closed to the Public Indefinitely

(Anchorage) - The Alaska Department of Fish and Game (Department) announced today that both state-owned Fisheries Centers will remain closed to the public until further notice to protect the public and staff from the potential spread of COVID-19. These public spaces include the Tanana Valley Fisheries Center, located at the Ruth Burnett Sport Fish Hatchery in Fairbanks, and the Ship Creek Fisheries Center, located at the William Jack Hernandez Sport Fish Hatchery in Anchorage.

“We planned to re-open both visitor centers by April 7th, but given current circumstances and health mandates from the Governor’s office, both centers will remain closed to help keep the public and hatchery staff safe,” Molly McCarthy-Cunfer, the Ship Creek Fisheries Center supervisor, said.

Although the Fisheries Center in Anchorage will remain closed, the outside path along Ship Creek will remain open for members of the public. Guided tours will not be available.

This closure will not impact fish production at the William Jack Hernandez Sport Fish Hatchery or the Ruth Burnett Sport Fish Hatchery. Both facilities will continue normal operations as staff care for fish and prepare for the summer stocking season. The Department remains committed to providing diverse sport fishing opportunities for Alaskans through its hatchery enhancement program.

For more information, please contact Molly McCarthy-Cunfer at 907-444-6030 or email at molly.mccarthy@alaska.gov .

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