Dan Knoll (503) 947-6023  

SALEM, Ore —The public is invited to attend the next meeting of the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Fish Restoration and Enhancement Board on April 5 and 6 in the McMinnville Public Works conference room, 2060 Layfette Ave.

The meeting on April 5 is from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. The April 6 meeting begins at 9:00 a.m. and ends at 5:00 p.m. The agenda includes a review of the latest grant applications, an overview of the R&E Program budget, updates on current hatchery maintenance, upgrades and repairs, and other business.

Created by the Oregon Legislature in 1989, the Fish Restoration and Enhancement Program is funded by a surcharge on sport and commercial fishing licenses and commercial poundage fees. The program’s seven-member citizen board reviews fish restoration and enhancement project proposals and makes funding recommendations to the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission.

The meeting is open to the public, and an opportunity for public comment will be provided.

A field trip to view local projects funded by the R&E Program is scheduled for April 7 from 8:00 a.m. to noon. Members of the public may accompany the group, but must use their own transportation. Persons seeking additional information on the field trip may contact R&E Program staff at (503) 947-6259.

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 on the Fish Restoration and Enhancement Program, or to view information regarding current R&E Program applications, visit www.dfw.state.or.us/fish/RE or contact program coordinator Laura Tesler at (503) 947-6259.

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.