Once a year, Pacific Power and the Washington Fish and Wildlife Department open the Merwin Fish hatchery to special guests -- more than 200 children from local hospitals and rehabilitation facilities, dozens of good-hearted volunteers and two ponds teeming with 3,000 fish. Fun is guaranteed when the Merwin Fish Hatchery opens its accessible ponds to kids with disabilities for the annual Merwin Special Kids Day. Sponsored by Pacific Power and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, the event brings young patients – including those with spina bifida, cerebral palsy, cancer or other conditions – from Doernbecher Children's Hospital, Shriners Hospitals for Children, Legacy Emanuel Children's Hospital, Kaiser Kids and other facilities to the hatchery. Fish hatchery operators work year-round to cultivate fish especially for this event. The fish range in size from one to nine pounds each. Dozens of local businesses donate food, beverages and prizes, with sponsors and Woodland community members providing volunteer support. 

Saturday, July 8, 2023 

9 a.m. - 1p.m 

Merwin Fish Hatchery 10 miles east of Woodland, Wash. 

Take I-5 to the Woodland/Cougar exit. Go east on Highway 503 for 10 miles. Turn right at the Merwin Dam/Pacific Power sign. Go one-half mile down the hill and follow the signs.

CONTACT: 

Simon Gutierrez

503-995-8576

simon.gutierrez@pacificorp.com

Calling ahead is good, but not necessary. Media can check in at the registration booth and you'll be directed to someone who can show you around.