Our membership takes pride and pleasure in giving back to our community by sponsoring several annual events. The Emerald Empire Chapter begins the spring by hosting our annual Big Brother – Big Sister Fish Along at Carmen Reservoir adjacent
to the Mckenzie River. Our local chapter in conjunction with Big Brother – Big Sister and Committed Partners for Youth host approximately 35 youths and their mentors for a full day of fishing & hiking. The youth/mentors are transported to Carmen Reservoir, fed breakfast and lunch, and after some important safety instructions, able to fish one-on-one with an ANWS member. Following a great day on the water and an afternoon hike, the kids are each rewarded with their own rod & reel to take home.
In July, our members gather together for our “Willamette River Cleanup”. Members and volunteers spend an entire Saturday cleaning the banks and bottom of the Willamette River from Dexter Dam down to the “D” Street boat landing. Everything from fishing line
to fenders are gathered up, recycled, or taken to the local refuse disposal site. Following a hard day on the river, members gather together for a potluck BBQ.
To assist those who have purchased a drift boat for the first time, or t0 help out those who just want to learn a new stretch of one of our local rivers, our club offers “Learn the River” floats. One of our knowledgeable members will lead the flotilla down the river, directing those new to the river down the correct path, while pointing out necessary land/navigation marks to be aware of. A second member familiar with the river will bring up the rear, making sure all have navigated the river safely.
