The U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) have renewed their agreement to provide $1 million annually for three federal fish hatcheries, which have stocked waters in Georgia and Tennessee with millions of trout. This partnership also includes the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency and the Georgia Department of Natural Resources.

Since 2013, TVA has funded trout production at three national fish hatcheries: Dale Hollow and Erwin in Tennessee, and Chattahoochee Forest in Georgia. The trout produced are released into various tailwaters and reservoirs, allowing the public to enjoy fishing. The partners announced the continuation of their agreement during a celebration on November 25, which featured a fish release event near Blue Ridge, Georgia. The agreement is set to provide $3 million in funding through fiscal year 2027.

Leaders from the partner agencies highlighted the importance of this collaboration in enhancing outdoor recreation, supporting the economy, promoting clean water, and providing sustainable fishing opportunities. Each year, the partnership stocks TVA waters with 500,000 trout and significantly contributes to local economies, with over 256,000 anglers spending around $75 for every dollar invested in the hatchery program, equating to an economic impact of about $50 million.