June 18, 2012

SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife is seeking qualified candidates to represent the mid-Willamette Valley on the Salmon and Trout Enhancement Program (STEP) Advisory Committee.

The STEP program was created by the Oregon Legislature in 1981 to provide a way for volunteers to participate in the restoration of native stocks of salmon, steelhead and trout.

Oregonians who  are involved with local fishing or STEP groups, have previous experience working with volunteers and/or in community service, or are involved in natural resource or angling education are encouraged to apply. Candidates must be able to travel at least four times per year.

The ideal candidate will be a resident of the mid-Willamette Valley which includes the communities of Salem, Dallas, Kings Valley, Corvallis, Junction City, Albany, Veneta, Eugene, Sweet Home, Lebanon, Mill City and Detroit.

The major stream basins in this area include Rickreall Creek, North Santiam River, South Santiam River, Calapooia River, Luckiamute River, Mary’s River, Long Tom River and middle section of the Willamette River from north of Eugene to Salem.

The successful candidate will start on or shortly after Sept.  1, 2012 and will serve a four-year term, with the possibility of re-appointment for a total term of eight years.

The Advisory Committee is comprised of 13 members representing all regions of Oregon. Members are appointed by the Governor and meet quarterly in various communities throughout the state to conduct STEP business and advise ODFW and the Fish and Wildlife Commission on issues regarding STEP. Committee members are volunteers; however, business-related expenses are reimbursed.

This recruitment will remain open until filled, though candidates are encouraged to apply by July 13, 2012.

For more application materials, visit http://governor.oregon.gov/Gov/boards.shtml and follow the link to “interest form.”  Information on STEP can be found at https://www.dfw.state.or.us/fish/STEP or by contacting Kevin Herkamp, ODFW Salmon and Trout Enhancement Program Coordinator, at (503)947-6232 or kevin.herkamp@state.or.us.

###