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A Hidden Local Wonder – The Robert E. Barrett Fishway (aka “The Holyoke Fish Elevator”)
If you’ve never seen a fish ride an elevator, you’re missing out on one of the most unique natural spectacles in New England. The Robert E. Barrett Fishway—affectionately known to locals as the Holyoke Fish Ladder—is actually more of a fish elevator, and it’s an unforgettable experience for all ages.
Each spring, you can watch shad, herring, lamprey, and occasionally even an elusive Atlantic salmon get gently scooped up and lifted over the Holyoke Dam. Through large glass viewing panels, you’re practically eye-to-eye with these remarkable travelers as they continue their epic upstream journey. It’s like an aquarium designed by Mother Nature herself.
Knowledgeable and friendly guides are on hand to explain how it all works—how this ingenious system helps restore river health, protect migratory species, and bring us closer to the rhythms of the natural world. Best of all? It’s 100% free.
Whether you’re a kid seeing a fish elevator for the first time or a nature lover marveling at engineering that works with wildlife, the Robert E. Barrett Fishway is a local treasure that deserves every bit of its wonder-filled reputation....
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NOT HELPFUL TO THE DISABLED! CALL THIS # FOR ELEVATOR ACCESS.... FOR NO ONE TO PICK UP OR FOR THE SYSTEM TO HANG UP ON YOU! I walk with a cane, My bf has been wanting to take me for my very 1st time, well I still didn't get to see it! I did the painful walk down, got to the building and stood around while trying this number numerous times finally after almost 10 minutes of getting more soar standing and waiting I had to give up! Annoying and horrible service! Won't be back to make myself more miserable to...
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This was really interesting to me. It was pretty cool to see how the fishway worked. It's only open during limited hours and for only a few months. It's pretty cool to take kids and show them this elevator for fish. You do have to climb stairs to experience the main event and I didn't see an elevator for people. There's an educational area when you first walk in.
If none of that interests you, it's...
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