SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife is seeking qualified candidates to fill the open positions representing the upper-Willamette Valley and North Coast region on the Salmon and Trout Enhancement Program (STEP) advisory committee.

Oregonians that are involved with local fishing groups, have previous experience working with volunteers and/or in community service, and are able to travel at least four times per year are encouraged to apply. The ideal candidates will be residents of either the upper-Willamette Valley or the North Coast region.

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 committee is comprised of 13 members representing all regions of Oregon.
Members are appointed by the Governor and meet quarterly in various communities throughout the state to conduct STEP business, and advise ODFW and the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission on issues regarding STEP. Committee members are volunteers; however, business-related expenses are reimbursed.
The positions will remain open until filled, though candidates are encouraged to apply by Aug. 31, 2009. STEP committee members are appointed to four-year terms and can be re-appointed once for a total term of eight years.

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