RR 1, Box 389
Oxford, NJ 07863-9748
(908) 637-4125
http://www.state.nj.us/dep/fgw/pequest.htm
This unique facility, operated by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and Energy's Division of Fish, Game, and Wildlife, produces over 600,000 brook, brown, and rainbow trout per year. That's a lot of fish! The trout average 10.5 inches long and are stocked in over 200 bodies of water open to public fishing. Located on a tract of more than 1600 acres, the Pequest Hatchery is a very large facility and is uniquely equipped to deliver a very interesting education.
Indivual visitors and families can see a continuously running video, "Hooked on Nature," in the Hatchery auditorium, and participate in interactive exhibits, as well as take a Self-Guided Tour.
Special programs about fish, wildlife, and other natural resources are presented to School Groups, grades 2 and up. Mini-workshops are also available. Lasting 1 to 2 hours, they include Fishing Education, covering fish biology, fisheries management safety, ethics, equipment, and techniques used in fishing; Pond Ecology, where students learn about the interrelationship of pond inhabitants and the vital role they play in the ecosystem; and World of Trees, designed to increase student awareness of trees and their importance as a natural resource. Many others are available. One month before the scheduled program, teachers will receive a pre-visit pack to help prepare students for the adventure. Post-visit packs complete the lessons learned.
Group size must be 15 to 25 or 30 students, depending on programs selected. Programs take place rain or shine, so be prepared!
Finally, one of the most amazing things about the Pequest Hatchery is that all services are delivered FREE of charge. This will contribute to the necessity of reserving well in advance.
Hours: 10am - 4pm 7 days a week. Closed holidays.
Admission: FREE.
Group Reservations: At least 12 weeks in advance (up to 6 months!).
Lunch: Outdoor picnic facilities.
Handicapped: Accessible.
Directions: I-80 West to exit 19. From exit turn left onto Rt. 517. Proceed several miles to first light and turn right onto Rt. 46 West. Continue west 9 miles on Rt. 46 to Pequest.
Time: 1 hour, 15 minutes west from the George Washington Bridge.
Nearby: Wild West City , Waterloo Village .