Catch a Special Thrill Aug. 6 at Potholes

MOSES LAKE — The Bureau of Reclamation is giving kids a chance to Catch the Special Thrill from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Aug. 6 at Potholes Reservoir.

The C.A.S.T., fishing event is a one-day fishing and boating event sponsored by the The Bureau of Reclamation’s Ephrata Field Office that is designed to accommodate children with a wide range of special needs. This C.A.S.T. event is also part of First Lady Michelle Obama’s “Let’s Move Outside” initiative. The First Lady’s goal is to solve the problem of childhood obesity by encouraging healthy diets and more physical activity.

“C.A.S.T. is one of the most rewarding programs for young people that I have been a part of,” said Jaurette Jackson, event coordinator for the Bureau of Reclamation’s Ephrata Field Office. “It is such a joy to see them get to do something they will remember for a long time.”

The children ranging from ages 7-16 will receive fishing gear, a T-shirt and a hat. Local Potholes Bass Club members and the Columbia Basin Walleye Club will be on hand with fishing boats and years of professional experience to assist the participants.

Reclamation’s canal safety mascot, Otto Otter, will make an appearance and hand out canal safety coloring books. The Canal Safety Program teaches kids and adults about the danger of canals and how to be safe around canals, ditches and other waterways.

The morning fishing events will be followed by a picnic lunch prepared by the Culinary Arts Class of the Columbia Basin Job Corps Center.

Participants and volunteers will meet at Potholes State Park located off State Route 262. Washington State Parks manages the campground which offers easy access to Potholes Reservoir.

For more information about the event or to volunteer, contact Jackson, at 509-930-4711.