Release the Salmon

By Ariniko O'Meara
Posted June 8, 2016   |   Previous Entry   |   Next Entry


As a photographer I often get asked, "Can you bring your camera too?" I usually try to keep the line drawn between my professional presence and my personal presence, but sometimes I enjoy being the person that captures an important moment for people.

A week ago my twins' class had a field trip to Ferguson Park in Okemos, MI. For the year they'd been raising salmons and had planned to use this trip to learn about the Mid Michigan rivers and release these baby salmon into the Red Cedar. I had already volunteered as a chaperone and brought my camera with me to capture this wonderful learning experience.

When I arrived at the park before the bus I was met by Mark Stephens who is the Education Program Coordinator at MSU. He was prepared for 90 students with river samples, waders, and nets. He was really great with the kids and informative about the Project FISH-Friends Involved in Sportfishing Heritage group that he's a part of.



Soon the buses arrived and almost 100 students filled the park anxious to begin their exploration. Groups were formed to make it easier. I was tasked with taking photographs of each group releasing the baby salmon.



The field trip lasted about 2 hours and every child and willing adult was able to release a fish into the river. I am so thankful that opportunities like these are available to our children.