Swim Kokanee Swim! Community Launches Kokanee Fry into Issaquah Creek on Earth Day!

Celebrate Kokanee 2016 was a joyous event held on Earth Day, April 22, with intermittent dark clouds and bright sun and dozens of children experiencing "All Things Kokanee" as many volunteers shared stories and games. The Snoqualmie Tribe sent the new Kokanee off with a blessing. Local area school children and dignitaries and other members of the Kokanee Work Group — including Friends of Lake Sammamish State Park — were on hand to share information about the work that is being done to conserve and enhance habitat for this endangered species of salmon. Issaquah Mayor Pro Tem Stacy Goodman acted as emcee for the brief speeches including comments by Dow Constantine.

Children and adults alike took their duty seriously as they released the Kokanee fry into Issaquah Creek at Confluence Park in downtown Issaquah.

Thanks to an excellent job by the Kokanee Work Group (KWG) including Heather Van Dorn, Friends of Issaquah Salmon Hatchery (FISH), Trout Unlimited, US Fish and Wildlife, the city of Issaquah and others in creating an educational, fun and delicious event. Food was provided by Wild Fin, PCC and Top Pot Donuts among others.