SALEM, Ore - Oregon's Fish Passage Task Force will meet Aug. 24 in La Grande to discuss and make recommendations on current statewide fish passage issues.

The meeting will be held at the La Grande Fire Station, 1806 Cove Ave. from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The agenda includes presentations on Grande Ronde fish populations and passage issues, draft bridge guidance, fish passage mitigation banking ideas, and priority fish passage sites, as well as an update on the Department's passage program and other Task Force business. Members of the public are welcome to attend.

Fish Passage Task Force members are appointed by the ODFW Director. The nine-member group meets quarterly to advise ODFW on fish passage policies and issues. Task Force members represent water users, fisheries and conservation interests, and the general public.

Fish passage must be addressed by owners and operators of artificial obstructions at certain key times, such as new construction, major replacement, a change in permit status, and abandonment. Providing adult and juvenile fish passage to maintain and restore access to historic habitat is one of the best ways to improve fish populations.

Reasonable accommodations will be provided as needed for individuals requesting assistive hearing devices, sign language interpreters or large-print materials. Individuals needing these types of accommodations may call the Information and Education Division at 800-720-6339 or 503-947-6002 at least 24 hours in advance of the meeting. For more information call Tom Stahl, state Fish Passage Coordinator, at 503-947-6228.

The mission of the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife is to protect and enhance Oregon's fish and wildlife and their habitats for use and enjoyment by present and future generations. The agency consists of the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission, a commission-appointed director and a statewide staff of approximately 950 permanent employees. Headquartered in Salem, ODFW has regional offices in Clackamas, Roseburg, Bend, and La Grande with ten district offices located throughout