ODFW is seeking applicants for the Umpqua, Upper Rogue, Southern Mid-Coast/Lower Umpqua and South Willamette territories of the Salmon and Trout Enhancement Program (STEP) Advisory Committee. Interested individuals are encouraged to apply by February 28, 2018.

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 three times per year. Successful candidates will serve a four-year term, with the possibility of re-appointment for a total term of eight years.

For application materials, visit the “How to Apply” webpage below, complete the Interest Form and follow directions for submitting: oregon.gov/gov/admin/Pages/How_To_Apply.aspx

The ideal candidate for the Upper Rogue Representative will be a resident of the Upper Rogue STAC territory which primarily includes Jackson and Josephine Counties. The major stream basins in this area include the Upper Illinois, Applegate and Rogue Rivers (upstream from the confluence with Mule Creek to the headwaters near Crater Lake).

The ideal candidate for the Umpqua Representative will be a resident of the Umpqua STAC territory which covers the entire Umpqua Basin above Elkton and extends from Diamond Lake in the Cascades west to Elkton. Major stream basins include Cow and Calapooya Creek, and the North Fork, South Fork and mainstem Umpqua River.

The ideal candidate for the Southern Mid-Coast/Lower Umpqua Representative will be a resident of the southern portion of the Mid-Coast STAC territory that includes all of the central Oregon Coast basins from south of Yachats to the Coos County line just south of Reedsport. Major stream basins include the Smith, lower Siuslaw, and lower Umpqua Rivers. This territory primarily includes western Lane and Douglas Counties from a north south line that roughly extends between Triangle Lake, Walton, and Elkton.

The ideal candidate for the South Willamette Representative will be a resident of the South Willamette STAC territory that includes the headwaters of the Willamette (including the McKenzie, Middle Fork, and Coast Fork), the upper Siuslaw and upper Long Tom Rivers. To the west of I-5 this includes all of Lane County from a north south line that roughly extends through Triangle Lake and Walton.

STEP 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. Since then, thousands of volunteers have assisted Oregon's fisheries through their involvement in STEP, donating money, materials, equipment, and countless hours of time and labor.

The 13 members of the Advisory Committee are appointed by the Governor and represent all regions of Oregon. The committee meets 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.

More information on this announcement, STAC, and STEP can be found at 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.