Reclamation will host the 14th annual Catch a Special Thrill fishing event for kids on August 7, 2010, at Rockport Reservoir. Reclamation sponsors this annual event with the support of an ever-increasing list of partners, sponsors, and volunteers to provide disabled and disadvantaged children the opportunity to enjoy a day of boating and fishing.

Reclamation first became involved with the C.A.S.T. for Kids Foundation in 1991, when it was initially formed. The success of the first event at Banks Lake in eastern Washington for both the participating children and the community, resulted in a rapid expansion of supporting/sponsoring agencies and an increase in the number of events offered. In 2010, 57 events will be held in 24 states across the nation, including one in Washington, DC.

Reclamation has remained a C.A.S.T. sponsor since 1991 with all five of its regions hosting events throughout the 17 Western states each year. C.A.S.T for Kids provides an opportunity for children with disabilities and their families as well as disadvantaged children and their parents/caretakers to spend a day on the water with volunteer anglers learning to fish. The C.A.S.T. Foundation's goal is to provide this experience for children who might otherwise never have the opportunity, while simultaneously providing the opportunity for volunteers to gain a new appreciation for people living with impairments, or in less than ideal situations.

The success of C.A.S.T. for Kids fishing events is made possible thanks to the continued support of the many sponsors, partner organizations and volunteers who donate significant time, money, equipment, and supplies to make the event a day to remember for the kids.

The Rockport fishing event will begin in the morning at 7 a.m. (volunteers are asked to be there at 6 a.m.) with check-in where the kids will receive their fishing gear and be partnered with an angler and boat. After a couple of hours on the water, a lunch will be provided by the Weber Basin Job Corps Center followed by an awards ceremony.

This year, C.A.S.T. is in particular need of extra boats and boat captains. Thirty-two kids will be attending but only 24 boats and boat captains are available. If you are interested in volunteering your time to take a group (child and care-giver) onto the water, contact Patricia Tease at 801-524-3736. For more information on C.A.S.T. for Kids, visit http://www.castforkids.org.