The Wyoming Game and Fish Department has temporarily closed the Story Fish Hatchery in Story, Wyo. to public access due to the recent growth of the Elk Fire in Sheridan County.

The hatchery facility and surrounding areas in Story are currently in the ‘ready’ evacuation status designated by Sheridan County officials.

To protect public safety, allow firefighters unhampered access to the facility and nearby areas for fire suppression efforts and to allow hatchery personnel to make evacuation preparations, the hatchery will remain closed to public access until it is no longer in any evacuation stage.