Western Slope Service Shines

The other LFS in Grand Junction is Western Slope Aquatics and is located not far from the J&M. This LFS only has aquatics, which is nice since they are more specialized with a wide selection of plumbing parts, equipment, tanks, lighting, salt, coral, rock, driftwood, plants, and fish, both salt and freshwater. Once again, the layout of the store is the same as last year and the variety remains good. The area where they seem to be hurting is the light stocking of the tanks. They could use a truck load of fish and plants. Many of the livestock they have to offer are locally breed. I do get the importance of this, and I also know customers are demanding and this will not keep them going long term.

A bright spot for them is customer service. They offer the somewhat newish service of API water testing. This is a computer process which they offer free to new customers. It is only a nominal fee for anyone who brings a vial of water from their tank or tanks. The computer read out is emailed to the customer for both convenience and accuracy. Call them for details or better yet drop in.

The bank of shrimp tanks by the front desk makes checking out fun and inspirational. Perhaps you need a new shrimp tank in your life? Kidding aside, they offer all you need. Planted tanks look sensational with colorful shrimp to find in the dark spaces. One of the things a LFS offers that you cannot find just anywhere is personalized guidance. This is the place I would come if I was starting a new project or branching into another aspect of the hobby.

Speaking of the hobby, the staff and others are working to start a local aquarium club, so if you are interested, drop by the store and sign up. With my experience in the Colorado Aquarium Society (a past President), I can say with confidence sharing your hobby with like minded individuals can be most rewarding.

Sequoia Elisabeth