Stockton staff member talking to the public about fisheries issues in the region. (photo USFWS)

by Paul Cadrett, Stockton FWO

During August 2008, 19 staff members from the Stockton Fish and Wildlife Office volunteered to fill 22 shifts at the Fish and Wildlife Service's Discovery Bay during the California State Fair at Cal Expo (Sacramento, California).  Staff members set up a rotary screw trap as a display for the public who often encounter this gear in local rivers.  Staff worked daily shifts over the duration of the fair, informing the public about the mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and assisting with outreach activities. Activities included making salmon-egg bracelets, applying temporary tattoos, handing out brochures, refuge maps and other information, and talking with the public.

Large displays were provided by Viola Taylor of the Sacramento Fish and Wildlife Office. The displays were informative to several audiences and included information on the salmon life cycle, salmon egg development, the California condor and other endangered species, refuge management, and California waterfowl.  The state fair was a great way to meet and greet the general public while providing an entertaining and informative atmosphere.