Participants at the Oklahoma Wildlife Expo can get a special inside look at the daily activities of a Wildlife Department fisheries employee Aug. 25-27. Although most Expo activities will take place at the Lazy E Arena just north of Oklahoma City, the Fisheries Management Field Trip will take place at Guthrie City Lake.
The unique trip will include a pontoon boat ride where attendees can observe biologists electrofishing to collect largemouth bass and trap netting to collect crappie and other game fish. The field trip will also include an opportunity to learn how biologists age fish and see how this important data is used to maintain quality fisheries around the state. Participants will also learn about fish hatchery production from spawning, to incubation, to stocking.
Pre-registration is required. To pre-register call 521-3721 between of 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Space is limited on the trips and sign up is on a first-come, first served basis. Participants may choose from one of 10 sessions:
Friday, August 25: 6 p.m. or 7:30 pm;
Saturday, August 26: 8 a.m., 9:30 a.m., 5 p.m. or 6:30 pm;
Sunday, August 27: 8 a.m., 9:30 a.m., 3 p.m. or 4:30 pm.
Registration will close on Friday, August 26 at 4:30 p.m. In the event of cancellations, interested individuals can check at the Information Booth during the Expo to see if space is available and what sessions are open.
Participants are encouraged to bring sunscreen, bug spray and appropriate clothing for outdoor conditions. Life jackets are required and will be provided, however, participants are also encouraged to bring their own life jacket if possible.
The Fisheries Management Field Trip is one of many highlights of the Wildlife Expo. With more than 200 different booths and activities, there will be plenty to do during the free event. Young and old alike will be sure to find something that interests them at the Expo from shotgun shooting, to a live butterfly exhibit, to dog training.
The Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation is partnering with a wide range of other state agencies, private individuals and outdoor-related companies to host the huge event, which is designed to promote and perpetuate Oklahoman’s appreciation of the state’s wildlife and natural resources.
For more information about the Wildlife Expo log on to wildlifedepartment.com.