News Release Archive

Reclamation Schedules C.A.S.T. For Kids Event at New Melones Lake

Media Contact: Jeffrey McCracken, 916-978-5100, 06/01/2007 18:35

For Release: June 01, 2007

The Bureau of Reclamation's Central California Area Office is holding a C.A.S.T. (Catch a Special Thrill) for Kids event on Saturday, June 9, 2007, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Eagle Point Group Picnic Area in the Tuttletown Recreation Area.   C.A.S.T. for Kids events are outdoor programs that "team up" sponsors and anglers with special needs children for a day of fishing enjoyment.  Disabled and disadvantaged children under 16 years of age may participate in this annual event.  This fun and educational opportunity for kids is offered free of charge.

This children's fishing event, begun 15 years ago by Reclamation staff, was combined 3 years ago with the C.A.S.T. Foundation; its purpose is to offer increased opportunities for many disabled and disadvantaged children.  At this year's event, each child will receive a free fishing rod and reel, bait and tackle equipment, and instruction.  Environmental exhibits, displays, and activities including a casting contest, fishing simulator, mammal and reptile exhibit, and free boat rides will be offered throughout the morning.

Water safety, a major theme for the event, will be demonstrated by Reclamation's New Melones Lake staff.  Boat rides will be provided by New Melones Lake staff, Tuolumne and Calaveras Sheriff boating safety units, and California State Parks representatives.  Expert fishing advice and demonstrations will be available from experienced anglers.  Added to this year's offerings is the Fishing Buddy Program.  Some children will have the opportunity to fish with members of local fishing clubs for an onboard boating and fishing experience.  The morning activities will culminate with a free BBQ lunch provided by Tuolumne County Sportsmen, Inc.

This event is supported and organized by the C.A.S.T. for Kids Foundation, Reclamation, California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, California State Parks, California Department of Fish and Game, and California Department of Water Resources.  Major contributors are:  Arnold Rotary; Tuolumne County Deputy Sheriff's Association; Angels Camp Branch of Bank of Stockton; Tuolumne County Sportsmen, Inc.; Tuolumne County Hi 4-H Club; Andy's Home Center; New Melones Lake Marina; Blue Mountain Minerals; Summit Chiropractic; Jay C. Wallace Plumbing & Drain; Behavior Solutions, Inc.; and numerous other local businesses and organizations.

For more information or to participate as a volunteer and/or help support this year's event, please contact New Melones Park Rangers Harold Sanders, e-mail hsanders@mp.usbr.gov, or Patricia Guida, e-mail pguida@mp.usbr.gov, or 209-536-9094.

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The Bureau of Reclamation is a federal agency under the U.S. Department of the Interior and is the nation's largest wholesale water supplier and second largest producer of hydroelectric power. Our facilities also provide substantial flood control, recreation opportunities, and environmental benefits. Visit our website at https://www.usbr.gov and follow us on Twitter @USBR; Facebook @bureau.of.reclamation; LinkedIn @Bureau of Reclamation; Instagram @bureau_of_reclamation; and YouTube @reclamation.