Raising Salmon Stewards in the Classroom

Through Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife’s (ODFW) Salmon and Trout Enhancement Program (STEP), Fish Eggs to Fry brings salmon or trout eggs into 700+ Oregon classrooms for students to observe and raise, while learning about one of our state’s most significant keystone species. The Association of Northwest Steelheaders coordinate with ODFW in specific locations to assist with setting up aquarium equipment, delivering eggs to classrooms, and introducing students to the importance of fish conservation.

Across the greater Portland-Metro region, students of all grade levels transform into scientists in their own classroom laboratories. Students and educators foster the development of the fish from eggs to fry, perform water quality tests, and incorporate salmon into their science, math, social studies, and even art curriculum.

Throughout this process, the children develop a personal relationship to salmon species, sparking a lifelong investment in wildlife conservation.

Northwest Steelheaders has funded more than 100 of the aquariums and chillers used by local classrooms in the greater Portland-Metro area, and support teachers further by providing curricular resources, classroom presentations, technical support, and assistance with fry release day events in partnership with the National Wildlife Federation through Eco-Schools U.S. Watch the Rearing Salmon and Eco-School Stewards video below to learn more about Fish Eggs to Fry in Oregon.

Volunteer Opportunity:

Interested in volunteering to deliver salmon and trout eggs to classrooms? Learn more and complete the survey, then register with ODFW to complete background check requirements and policies.

Please see a list of educational resources at the bottom of this page.