After 99 years as a New York State Trout Hatchery, the "Hatchery and Aquarium" opened as a non-profit educational center dedicated to educating its visitors about the freshwater ecosystems of New York. Unique public programs are presented throughout the year and education programs are provided for thousands of students from pre-K through college who come from all parts of the state. Scouts, senior citizens, and groups with disabilities also attend programs.
The Hatchery is proud of having the largest living collection of New York State freshwater reptiles, fish and amphibians which are housed in the Julia F. Fairchild Building, the Walter L. Ross II Aquarium Building and in eight outdoor ponds. Brook, Brown and Rainbow trout are raised to stock private ponds.