"For some kids, this is their first experience fishing," said local coordinator Sarah Wageman of the Bureau of Reclamation's Upper Snake Field Office. "For the volunteers, it's a great opportunity to be part of a special experience that these children will remember for a lifetime."

The participants range in age from 7-16 years old and have a variety of physical and/or developmental disabilities and, in some cases, a terminal illness. Each participant will receive fishing gear, a tee shirt, and a hat.

Local volunteers will provide fishing boats and expertise to assist novice anglers. The morning fishing event will be followed by a barbecue lunch hosted by the Rupert Elks Club 2106. Partners include: C.A.S.T. for Kids Foundation, Bureau of Reclamation, Rupert Elks Club 2106, Idaho State Parks, and Idaho Department of Fish and Game. The Minidoka County Sheriff Department, United States Coast Guard Auxiliary and Emergency Response Ambulance will be assisting by providing emergency services for the event. Lake Walcott State Park is located 11 miles northeast of Rupert off State Highway 24.

For more background information about the program, contact Shari Kohlbecker at Bureau of Reclamation, Suite 100, 1150 North Curtis Road, Boise ID 83706-1234, or (208) 378-5050. For information about the July 16 event, contact Sarah Wageman, Upper Snake Field Office, (208) 678-0461, Ext. 48. In the event of rain the C.A.S.T. event will be canceled.