ODFW release – SALEM, Ore — The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife is seeking a new member to represent the Coos, Coquille and Tenmile STEP District on the Salmon and Trout Advisory Committee (STAC). Interested individuals are encouraged to apply by Dec. 27, 2023. ODFW is seeking interest from Oregonians that can represent the public and partner organizations involved with the Salmon and Trout Enhancement Program (STEP). Desired applicants will have experience working with volunteers, community service organizations, or involvement in natural resource or angling education. Ideally, candidates should have knowledge of the issues and activities performed by STEP biologists, volunteers, and partner organizations within their territory. The ideal candidate must be a resident of the Coos, Coquille & Tenmile STEP district, which includes the communities of Lakeside, North Bend, Coos Bay, Bandon, Coquille, Myrtle Point and Powers. This area covers the coastal basins from the Eel/Tenmile Lake area south to Bandon and includes the Millicoma, Coos, and Coquille Rivers. ODFW provides many opportunities for all Oregonians to be engaged with STEP and is looking for ways to further expand our community outreach. Candidates that can connect with or represent young adults, women, families, or underrepresented populations are strongly encouraged to apply. 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 that time, thousands of volunteers have assisted Oregon’s fisheries through their involvement in STEP, donating money, materials, equipment, and countless hours of volunteer time and labor. The nine members of the Salmon and Trout Advisory Committee are appointed by the Governor and represent all regions of Oregon. The committee meets two times per year in various communities throughout the state to conduct STEP business and advise ODFW and the Fish and Wildlife Commission on issues regarding STEP. Committee members are volunteers; however, business-related expenses may be reimbursed. For application materials, visit the ODFW STEP webpage and use the “Click here to apply” link. https://www.dfw.state.or.us/fish/step/STAC.asp More information on this announcement, STAC, and STEP can be found at https://www.dfw.state.or.us/fish/STEP/index.asp or by contacting Marty Olson, ODFW Salmon and Trout Enhancement Program Coordinator, at (503) 947-6232 or Martin.P.Olson@Odfw.Oregon.Gov.