Columbia Springs
Our Mission
Columbia Springs offers a unique setting and educational experiences that foster a greater awareness of the natural world and inspire stewardship.
Columbia Springs programming includes Onsite Education, Salmon in the Classroom, Volunteering, Repair Clark County, and Community Events. Program coordinators work collaboratively to create innovative learning and recreational experiences for visitors.
Columbia Springs Interactive Map
Hover over the map pins to see title and image of the location.
Map Legend:
- Red Pins: Points of Interest
- Green Pins: Historical Display
- Blue Pins: Outdoor Picnic Area
- Orange Pins: Wildlife Viewing Deck
- Yellow Pins: Trail Information
What we do
Our Programs
Onsite Education
Volunteering
Salmon in the Classroom
Fifty schools host fish tanks for coho salmon as part of their science curriculum. The program coordinator provides fish dissections and other activities in class at participating schools. Students participate in fish releases at the end of the school year to release their salmon into local streams. With financial support from Clark Public Utilities, the program reaches over four thousand students each year, inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards.
Repair Clark County
Public Events
Events and festivals help thousands of people every year connect with nature and learn about the environment and human impact. Kids Fishing Festival partners with Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, and offers hundreds of children a year the opportunity to learn how to fish. Guided Walks and Nature Days are provided monthly during the warmer seasons and offer guests free tours and activities to learn about the Hatchery and the unique natural features at Columbia Springs.
Vancouver Trout Hatchery
The Vancouver Trout Hatchery was built in 1938 and faced closure in the 1990s when a group of community partners committed to funding ongoing operations. Today, it continues to raise over 780,000 trout, chum salmon, and steelhead each year. Operated by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, the hatchery is funded through the ongoing support of Clark Public Utilities, the local nonprofit electric utility formed by a vote of the people in 1938, the same year the hatchery was built.