Salmon in the Classroom

The Salmon in the Classroom program, established in 1991 by WDFW, was created as an educational project to encourage respect for water resources and promote responsible behavior towards the environment. The Franklin Conservation District began sponsoring the Salmon in the Classroom Program in 2002 for schools in Franklin County. Since then the program has expanded and the FCD currently sponsors 22 tanks across Eastern Washington.

This program provides:

• all necessary equipment to raise salmon
• organized field trips
• hands-on in-class presentations on salmon and water quality
• teacher workshops
• Salmon in the Classroom GLAD Unit

By becoming salmon stewards, students are more aware of local waterways and more conscious of and knowledgeable about water quality issues. The program also informs students that the agricultural community supports realistic, science based salmon recovery efforts.

The Salmon in the Classroom experience culminates in May with a “release day” organized by the conservation district. Over 3,000 students participating in the program gather to release their fish into an approved water body. Once the fish are released guest speakers from numerous agencies provide learning stations for the students turning the day into a true celebration of the salmon experience.

Salmon Summit Dates (With Benton Conservation District):

May 4th and 5th, 2010 - Columbia Park, Kennewick

Salmon Celebration dates:

May 7, 2010 - Lyon's Ferry State Park, Snake River

May 21, 2010 - Steamboat Rock State Park, Banks Lake

For more information contact:

Kara Kaelber
Franklin Conservation District
1620 Rd. 44 N
Pasco, WA. 99301
509-545-8546 ext. 3