Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to you from the entire Board of Old Pueblo Trout Unlimited.
You have heard many times, “This has been a difficult year”. OPTU continues to help our community and the environment here in Arizona. Here are some of the highlights from our year.
This year OPTU had the privilege of donating to the Gila Trout Recovery Program operated by AZGFD. We gave a donation to “Fish Camp” which was a Boy Scout program this summer in Payson. Members assisted the AZGFD transport and stocking of 500 Gila Trout to the top of Mt. Graham in Safford. Our Trout in the Classroom was on hold this year. Plans are underway to continue the program in 2021 when the schools are open. Our monthly presentations were “Virtual” this year, but the information and presentations were helpful and informative.
Old Pueblo TU has almost 500 members here in southern Arizona. We have new Board members that bring youth and professional skills to the projects and programs we are all involved in. The Board is working on a new Strategic Plan for the next five years. Our goal is to continue the programs that improve fishing and protect our clean cold water for anglers and people who love the outdoors.
Opportunities exist to become more involved in the programs here in Arizona. Some of these positions are: A position on the Conservation Committee. This group works with other volunteers here in Arizona to provide clean cold water for native and wild trout to survive and thrive. A position on Diversity is involved in the recruitment of new young members to get involved in our meetings, activities and programs. Youth Education coordinator. Trout Unlimited has a formal program to involve youth of all ages to get outdoors and have fun.
Volunteers for these positions would not be abandon at their post. Members have the complete support and cooperation from the entire Board. Our goal would be to have a volunteer ease into the role and start with a small project.
Contact any Board member if you are interested in helping with any of these rewarding programs here in Tucson. Until then, enjoy your holidays and stay safe.
