SALEM, Ore.— ODFW is seeking applicants for two positions on the Salmon and Trout Enhancement Program (STEP) Advisory Committee. Interested individuals should apply by Aug. 15, 2021. ODFW is seeking interest from Oregonians that are able to represent the public and partner organizations involved with STEP. Desired applicants will have experience working with volunteers, community service organizations, or involvement in natural resource or angling education. Ideal candidates have knowledge of the issues and activities performed by STEP biologists, volunteers, and partner organizations within their territory. ODFW provides many opportunities for all Oregonians to be engaged with STEP and is looking for ways to expand our community outreach. Candidates that are able to connect with or represent young adults, women, families, or underrepresented populations are strongly encouraged to apply. The ideal candidate for the Mid-Coast Representative will reside within and have knowledge of, or willingness to learn about, STEP activities in a territory that includes Lincoln County, western Lane County and small western portions of Polk and Benton Counties that includes the communities of Lincoln City, Newport, Alsea, Florence, and Mapleton. The ideal candidate for the South Willamette Representative will reside within and have knowledge of, or willingness to learn about, STEP activities in a territory that includes the Willamette Valley extending from north of Salem to south of Eugene and from the coast range to the cascades, and includes the communities of Salem, Dallas, Philomath, Corvallis, Junction City, Albany, Veneta, Eugene, Sweet Home, Lebanon, Detroit, Springfield, Cottage Grove, and Oakridge. Candidates must have the appropriate technology to participate in virtual meetings and or be able to travel to committee meetings two to three times per year. The successful candidates will serve a four-year term, with the possibility of re-appointment for a total term of eight years. 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 the inception, thousands of volunteers have assisted ODFW through their involvement in STEP, by donating money, materials, equipment, and countless hours of time and labor. The 9 members of the Advisory Committee are appointed by the Governor and represent all regions of Oregon. The committee meets quarterly 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 are reimbursed. For application materials, visit the “How to Apply” webpage http://www.oregon.gov/gov/admin/Pages/How_To_Apply.aspx and complete the interest form and follow instructions for submitting. More information on this announcement, STAC, and STEP can be found at http://www.dfw.state.or.us/fish/STEP or by contacting Kevin Herkamp, ODFW Salmon and Trout Enhancement Program Coordinator, at (503) 947-6232 or kevin.herkamp@odfw.oregon.gov.
