for School Year 2010

Our STEP Leadership Team and so many of our “certified” STEP teachers are looking forward to the many, usual STEP activities for the present 2009-2010 school year. In addition, we’ve been receiving many interested inquires from other teachers who wish to join our program. And, too, we have confirmation again that the National Marine Lab in Santa Cruz is anxious to support our program with their facilities for the 2010 STEP Workshop. It sure is heartening to see such continuing interest in our STEP program.

We do recognize, though, that we do have a few challenges ahead. Because of the recent Lockeed Fire, and recognizing the fire damage about the Monterey Bay Salmon & Trout Project Restoration Hatchery, we are not certain what the Hatchery will face when the Winter and Spring rains come and bring with them possible severe run-off (sludge) problems from the nearby hills. These events might cause a disruption in our ability to get spawners in the Spring and, with that, STEP eggs for the incubation program. Our team is certain that we will not conduct the Workshop unless we have assurance that we will be able to have steelhead eggs for the STEP incubation program.

Nevertheless, we try to be positive and plan things as we can. Please keep your fingers crossed that the future will bring light Winter/Spring rains, and a continuation of our STEP program in 2010. If you wish to find current, up-to-date information about the 2010 STEP Workshop and its possible scheduling, you may contact STEP Team Members Barry Burt, email address: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or Mary Ann Clare, email address: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it