Fairmount Water Works Interpretive Center™

Fish Ladder FAQs

I'm trying to gauge the size of the fish that swim through the window. What are the dimensions of the window?
The viewing window is 5.5 feet tall by 3 feet wide. The bolts you see in the background are approximately 8 inches apart.

When is the fish census/monitoring conducted?
The heaviest months of the fish census are during the spring migration season, during April, May and June.

How many species of fish are in the river?
Aquatic biologists have recorded 24 species of fish passing through the fish ladder.

What are the most common species found and recorded?
The following species make up approximately 75% of what has been seen in the ladder:

Quillback
Channel catfish
White sucker
Gizzard shad
Carp

Are there other types of wildlife that that have been seen going through the ladder?
In addition to fish, biologists have seen and recorded a muskrat, several turtles and snakes. Also, in the spring of 2005, a river otter was spotted making his way through the ladder to feed upstream. You can watch a video clip of the river otter here.

Can I fish at or near the ladder?
No. Fishing within 100 feet of the fish passage facility (the ladder and surrounding area) is strictly prohibited. This is for the protection and conservation of the wild fish swimming upstream through the ladder. The PA Fishing Commission and the Philadelphia Police Department patrol the area regularly and will issue fines to violators.

Can I park at the fish ladder access lane on West River Drive?
No. Parking is prohibited in this area, and you will be ticketed.

Can I visit the Fish Ladder?
We're sorry, but apart from pre-scheduled educational events, the public is not allowed on the grounds around the Fish Ladder due to State and City regulations.

I noticed that the webcam isn't working, or not currently available. Why?
Sometimes we perform maintenance on the camera and the system. At these times, the system is shut down. We also do not normally operate the fish cam during winter months.

Have more questions about the Fish Ladder?
If you want to know more about the Fish Ladder at Fairmount Dam, we suggest you visit the Fish Ladder exhibit at the Fairmount Water Works Interpretive Center.

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