City of Kennewick: Elementary School Children Participate in Salmon Summit to Release Salmon into the Columbia River

The Benton Conservation District is hosting its annual Salmon Summit event, where elementary school children participate in an educational program to raise salmon in the classroom, culminating in the release of the fish into the Columbia River. The event will take place on April 17th and 18th, 2023 from 9am – 1:30pm and will encompass the entire East end of Columbia Park – from the Regional Veterans Memorial to the East Boat Launch.  The Playground of Dreams will remain open. 

The Salmon Summit provides an opportunity for young students to learn about the life cycle of salmon, their importance to the ecosystem, and the human impact on their habitats. The program encourages hands-on learning through raising and releasing the salmon. The event is not open to the public. 

Road and Boat Launch Closures: The City of Kennewick, Department of Parks and Recreation announces the temporary closures of the East Boat launch and a portion of Paul Parrish Drive in Kennewick to protect the safety of children participating in the event in the park.  Signs advertising the closures and detour will be posted. 

The East Boat Launch will be closed from 7am – 12pm on both days, April 17th and 18th. In addition, portions of Paul Parrish Drive from the East Boat Launch to the Regional Veterans Memorial round-about will be closed from 7:30am – 2pm on April 17th and 18th.  A detour behind the Fishing Pond will be available for the public throughout the event. 
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The Department of Parks and Recreation is committed to ensuring the safety of all participants and attendees and appreciates the public’s cooperation during the temporary closures.