LAKEWOOD – The Lakewood Trout Hatchery opened in 2016 with help from the Northern Oconto County Trout Alliance. More than a decade of volunteer effort at the Lakewood Trout Hatchery is continuing to make an impact across Northern Oconto County and beyond. This past spring, funds connected to the hatchery were distributed through the Lakewood Area Chamber of Commerce, supporting local youth, outdoor and community organizations while donated equipment was sent to hatcheries across Wisconsin.

Over 50 volunteers worked alongside the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources for 10 years to help raise trout for area streams. With assistance from a DNR biologist, 17 fish feeders originally purchased through donations from families, individuals, organizations and businesses were also donated to other locations, where they will continue to be used in hatchery operations around the state.

The Chamber said the project’s many supporters made a lasting positive impact and offered thanks to everyone involved. Organizations receiving funds or equipment included:

YMCA Camp Nan A Bo Sho
Oconto County Sportsman’s Alliance
Bear Paw Scout Camp
YMCA Camp U Nah Li Ya
Suring Sportsman’s Club
Friends of Mountain Fire Department, Kid’s Fish Pond
Crooked Lake Sportsman’s Club
The Suring Market and Agricultural Center/Future Farmers of America Club
Wabeno High School Fishing Club
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources — 17 fish feeders

Feature photo shows the Lakewood Trout Hatchery with donated fish feeders and DNR Biologist Jesse, DNR Biologist Jon, volunteers Joe and Dave.

Photo Credit: Lakewood Area Chamber of Commerce

Published on: Jun 6, 2026 at 12:21 pm