Kindergarten Through College: Comprehensive Outreach Programming

Education and outreach work is becoming an increasingly vital component of fisheries conservation as ecological indifference and deficiencies in eco-literacy in the general population are on the rise.  This threat is due to a number of reasons including: a lack of emphasis on eco-literacy in primary education, reduced funding for field trips, media competition, and fewer opportunities for youth to experience nature.  The US Fish and Wildlife Service’s Washington Fish & Wildlife Office is conducting an ambitious and multifaceted outreach campaign in Western Washington to advance the appreciation for aquatic ecosystems while generating interest in fisheries conservation careers to a diverse and broad range of young people.  This project includes developing outreach partnerships and conducting outreach events, classroom visits, career day presentations, “Youth Fisheries Academy” day camps, resume clinics and social media.  Implementation strategies include employing and mentoring students.  Assessment data from 2010 show strong positive reviews from students, teachers and camp attendees.