We have arrived at our summer home, Leadville National Fish Hatchery. Established in 1889, Leadville NFH is the second oldest federal fish hatchery in the United States. It occupies over 3000 acres at an elevation of 10,000 feet. The cold, clean water supply provides ideal conditions for trout production.
The main hatchery building was constructed in 1890 and is still in use today. If you are wondering what that white pile is to the right of the porch, it is snow! Yes, there is still snow on the ground here in many places, and the forecast calls for additional light snow through the week.
This is the view to the east from our trailer. It is the Mosquito Range of the Rockies and as you can see there is still plenty of snow. To our immediate west, but obscured by trees is the taller Sawatch Range. Just 8 miles away is Mount Elbert, which at 14,400 feet tall is the tallest peak in Colorado.
We're just getting settled in and haven't starting any real volunteering yet, so stay tuned for more from frosty Leadville, Colorado.
Mark
I volunteered at the Bandon Oregon fish hatchery during salmon spawning season. It was very interesting work. I'll be interested to see what experiences you have.
ReplyDeleteVisited a few hatcheries but have never volunteered at any... looking forward to you posts!
ReplyDeleteHappy Landing!!! Looks great.
ReplyDeleteGlad you made it safely! Looks a little chilly for me but you guys will probably enjoy it over our humidity any day! Looking forward to hearing about the hatchery, etc. :)
ReplyDeleteWhat a gorgeous view!
ReplyDeleteSharon