Butte County’s own endangered species
Did you know that Butte County is the ONLY home in the world for Spring Run Chinook salmon? The creeks and rivers in Butte County currently offer the only spawning habitat worldwide for this magnificent species of fish. Part of an intricate eco-web of life, these Chinook salmon support countless other species in our area. And unfortunately, their populations have taken a sharp downturn in recent years. Many people in Butte County don’t know about these unique and endangered salmon. So, united with dozens of families in Butte County, Butte Environmental Council (BEC) is creating fun and engaging opportunities for the community to learn about them and hopefully prevent them from going extinct.
Butte County creeks and rivers offer the only spawning habitat worldwide for the magnificent Spring Run Chinook salmon. Photo by Ryan Hagerty/USFWS.
Eggs in the Classroom
BEC is part of an exciting, hands-on program known as “Eggs in the Classroom.” Through this program, school-age children and families are given the opportunity to observe the development of native Chinook and Steelhead eggs in a cold-water tank housed in the agency’s Chico office. Over the course of 3 scheduled visits, students watch the eggs grow up close and are supplied with engaging activities and curriculum to advance their understanding of the species. Once the fry (young fish) are developed, families are invited to attend an exciting Release Field Trip on the Feather River, where the fry are released into the wild. This program is entirely free to the public and is wildly popular among homeschool families who utilize the adaptive curriculum to meet several state standards for science education. Visit becnet.org to register.
Endangered Species Faire
This year BEC’s beloved Endangered Species Faire (ESF) will put a spotlight on the Spring Run Chinook and bring together Butte County’s animal lovers for an exciting day of fun and learning! On April 26, 10am – 3pm, come downtown to the Chico City Plaza for a grand Faire celebrating all things feathered, furred and finned. A colorful and whimsical street parade will kick off the Faire. Families are encouraged to build their own animal and nature-inspired puppets and register to join the lively Procession of the Species through downtown Chico. The ESF will also include live bands, fresh food, live animals and dozens of educational booths from local agencies, schools and businesses who all make Butte County a special place to call home. We hope to see you there!
Butte Environmental Council (BEC) is a nonprofit based in Chico CA whose mission is to protect and defend land, air and water in Butte County through action, advocacy and education. becnet.org
Posted in: Science & Nature
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