News Release Archive

Reclamation Announces the 17th C.A.S.T. for Kids Fishing Fun Fair at New Melones Lake

Media Contact: Pete Lucero, 916-978-5100, 04/01/2009 14:03

For Release: April 01, 2009

More than 75 volunteers and Bureau of Reclamation's Central California Area Office staff are planning for the annual C.A.S.T. (Catch a Special Thrill) for Kids Fishing Fun Fair at New Melones Lake.  This year's event is scheduled on Saturday, June 6, 2009, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.  The fair is co-sponsored by the C.A.S.T. for Kids Foundation, a national non-profit organization whose goal is "to provide disabled and disadvantaged children the opportunity to enjoy a quality outdoor recreational experience through the sport of fishing."

One hundred lucky children will be provided with free hats, t-shirts, tackle boxes, and fishing poles to keep.  Participants can cast their line from shore, go out on a boat with local volunteer fishermen, or take a ride on a patrol boat.  Educational and entertainment opportunities will also abound on shore with the opportunity to climb into a fire engine with California Department of Forestry firemen or visit a variety of booths ranging from gold-panning to casting contests, and from aquatic ecosystems to water safety.  A free barbecue lunch will be provided by the Tuolumne Sportsmen's Club.

Last year, more than 40 businesses, generous individuals, and service and fishing organizations contributed $4,000 as well as in-kind donations to cover expenses; this allows the event to be free for many families who could not afford fishing equipment and other expenses.  Individuals interested in making a tax-free donation to this event, volunteering fishing boat, or helping out in other ways should contact New Melones Park Ranger Leanne Bryan at 209-536-9094, extension 217, e-mail lbryan@mp.usbr.gov, or Ms. Linda Mager with Tuolumne County 4-H at 209-532-5896.

Children must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian at all times.  Due to the increasing popularity of this event, pre-registration is required.  Registration begins April 1, 2009, and closes April 30, 2009.  If you are interested in registering a child for this event, please contact Ms. Brittany George at 209-536-9094, extension 232, or pick up an application at the New Melones Administration Office or Visitor Center at 6850 Studhorse Flat Road off of Highway 49, just south of the Stevenot Bridge.

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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.