Friends of Erwin National Fish Hatchery

12/03/2025

We focus on terrestrial pollinators in our work at the Hatchery, but this version is pretty interesting as well.

A telescope in Chile has captured a stunning new image of the Butterfly Nebula, a grand and graceful cosmic wonder.

09/22/2025

We had many of our usual crew of volunteers helping out yesterday. Accomplished quite a bit of weeding, getting the pollinator gardens prepared for the fall. Thanks to all who participated.

09/18/2025

Join us this Sat morning for some nature time in the pollinator gardens. From 10:00a to 2:00p. Volunteer for a few hours and you’ll be able to grab a Fee Free Pass to Public Lands (one per family). We have the tools, just bring yourselves.

Photo below courtesy of Amy Wallin Tipton.

09/13/2025

We’re now one week away from our FENFH work day as part of our participation in National Public Lands Day. We’re hosting our activities one week ahead of most, as Sept. 27th will be filled with other memorial events locally recognizing the one year anniversary of Hurricane Helene and its devastating impact locally.

Join us next Saturday, September 20th from 10a to 2p for some work in the pollinator gardens. In return for a few hours of volunteer effort, you’ll be eligible for a Fee-Free pass to Public Lands good for one year (one per family).

< RETURN TO EVENT FINDER Pollinator garden work day In celebration and support of National Public Lands Day, the Friends group will be hosting a work day at Erwin National Fish Hatchery. Pollinator garden work is the focus. Event Date and Time Saturday, September 20, 2025 10:00am to 2:00pm Location....

08/10/2025

Early notice that we will be participating in National Public Lands Day events. Join us on Saturday September 20 from 10a-2p for work in the pollinator gardens. Please mark it on your calendar and plan to join us.

< RETURN TO EVENT FINDER Pollinator garden work day In celebration and support of National Public Lands Day, the Friends group will be hosting a work day at Erwin National Fish Hatchery. Pollinator garden work is the focus. Event Date and Time Saturday, September 20, 2025 10:00am to 2:00pm Location....

08/06/2025

As Visit Unicoi County, TN says…plan a visit!

07/16/2025

A few images from the pollinator gardens.

06/29/2025

Smaller crew today, but we accomplished some much needed weeding. Repotting plants in the greenhouse will be rescheduled for another work day soon. Pollinators are appreciating the efforts.

06/26/2025

T-3 and counting. We’ll be starting at 10:00am this Saturday. Please join us!!

We’re ready for another work day at the Hatchery. Saturday, June 28th at 10:00a we will be doing a bit of weeding and then shifting attention to some work in the greenhouse area, filling pots and getting things lined up for more plants to be ready for the fall planting season. No tools required…we have what is needed. Please join us if you are able to do so.

Our pollinator friends thank you.

06/21/2025

Join us one week from today for more fun in the gardens!

We’re ready for another work day at the Hatchery. Saturday, June 28th at 10:00a we will be doing a bit of weeding and then shifting attention to some work in the greenhouse area, filling pots and getting things lined up for more plants to be ready for the fall planting season. No tools required…we have what is needed. Please join us if you are able to do so.

Our pollinator friends thank you.

06/17/2025

We’re ready for another work day at the Hatchery. Saturday, June 28th at 10:00a we will be doing a bit of weeding and then shifting attention to some work in the greenhouse area, filling pots and getting things lined up for more plants to be ready for the fall planting season. No tools required…we have what is needed. Please join us if you are able to do so.

Our pollinator friends thank you.

06/16/2025

Pollinator Week is here! Though we recognize their importance and beauty year-round.

🌼🐝 Pollinator Week is here, Tennessee! 🐝🌼
June 16–22 has been officially proclaimed Pollinator Week in Tennessee by Gov. Bill Lee! 🧡

Pollinators like bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and other species help keep our farms productive and our landscapes vibrant. They’re essential to the health of our environment and our food supply.

This week, let’s celebrate the hardworking pollinators that help Tennessee grow!
🌸 Plant native flowers
🌿 Create pollinator-friendly habitats
🍯 Support local beekeepers
📸 Share your pollinator sightings!

Together, we can keep Tennessee buzzing with life.