EVERETT, Wash. — It’s like magic each year when the Coho salmon return from the Pacific Ocean, each survivor finding the stream of its birth. To celebrate this impressive journey, the Wallace River Salmon Hatchery near Sultan will open its doors to the public for one day on Saturday, Nov. 8.
To help attendees get the most out of their visit, a dedicated cadre of youth leaders from Washington State University Snohomish County Extension’s 4-H Natural Resource Program will act as Salmon Ambassadors, leading salmon tours and helping explain the life cycle of the salmon and their importance to our region’s cultural, economic, and ecological vitality.
The Wallace River Hatchery will be open to the public from 10 am to 3 pm, on Nov. 8. It is located at 14418 – 383rd Ave SE, Sultan (just off Highway 2 between Startup and Goldbar). The tour runs about two hours and includes hatchery exhibits and demonstrations on the life story of salmon and their native habitat as well as explaining the role of hatcheries, a bit of salmon anatomy, and the importance of aquatic insects. Tour participants will also learn what each of us can do to help increase salmon stocks and ensure their long-term survival.
Anyone interested in becoming a Salmon Ambassador and assisting with the Salmon Tours is encouraged to contact Gabrielle Roesch at 425/357-6011 or gabrielle90@wsu.edu.
During the week of Nov. 3 through 7, students from local high schools will give hatchery tours to elementary youth from around Snohomish County, illustrating the power of peer education. This opportunity affords young people the chance to teach those older and younger than they about the importance of salmon stewardship. It is an excellent way to build confidence and leadership skills.
The 4-H Natural Resources program helps young people and adults develop life skills while educating them to exercise leadership and support for responsible and ethical outdoor recreational activities as they endeavor to be stewards of our local natural resources.
For more information on the tours, contact Gabrielle Roesch, Natural Resources Program Coordinator, at 425/357-6011, or Karie Christensen at 425/338-2400 Ext. 5500.
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