I have volunteered with the Friends of the Issaquah Salmon Hatchery (FISH) for over 15 years. It has been a wonderful opportunity to share my knowledge of and passion for these magnificent, and threatened fish. The Issaquah Salmon Hatchery (ISH) is the most visited in Washington State, hosting over 100,000 visitors per year, especially during Salmon Days, hosted by the City of Issaquah during the first full weekend of October. I have participated in the extensive training for docents to give an expanding base of volunteers of all ages to share with the visitors. FISH hosts approximately 6,000 3rd and 4th grade students touring the hatchery, usually during an Environmental Science unit at school. It is exciting to me when a 9-year-old proudly shares that the salmon are returning to their natal stream after several years in the ocean.
Volunteering for the Friends of the Issaquah Salmon Hatchery has been highly rewarding and fruitful. It allows me to apply my knowledge of salmonids culture and willingness to share that knowledge in a way that enhances the chances of survival of these charismatic fish. The cause has attracted other like-minded folks as well, that makes the work fun and educational. I am very proud of the fact that my activities helped the organization tour over 10,000 3rd and 4th graders last year, making a lasting impression on this growing community.
Review from Guidestar