Dan Knoll (503) 947-6023
Fax: (503) 947-6009

SALEM, Ore — Oregon's Fish Screening Task Force will meet here Friday, Feb. 16 for a general overview of the state fish screening program, program status, and an update on statewide projects.

The meeting is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. in the director’s office conference room at - 3406 Cherry Avenue NE, Salem.

Fish screens prevent the loss of young fish when water is used for irrigation, municipal, hydroelectric or other beneficial purposes. They are an essential part of any system that diverts water from a public water body.

The seven members of the Fish Screening Task Force are appointed by the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission. The membership represents agricultural, fisheries and public interests. They meet several times each year to advise the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife on fish screening policies and issues.

The meeting is open to the public. Reasonable accommodations are 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 before the meeting. For more information, call Bernie Kepshire, State Fish Screening Coordinator, at 503.947.6229.

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 the state. For additional information, please visit www.dfw.state.or.us.