Young Conservationists in Action: Elementary Students Release Salmon into the Columbia River at Salmon Summit

​The Benton Conservation District is set to host its annual Salmon Summit, an engaging educational program where local elementary school students participate in nurturing salmon within their classroom environments, culminating in their release into the Columbia River. Scheduled for April 29th and 30th, 2025, from 9 am – 1:30 pm, the event will span the East end of Columbia Park, extending from the Regional Veterans Memorial to the East Boat Launch, while ensuring continued access for the public to the Playground of Dreams.
 
The Salmon Summit provides a unique platform for young learners to explore the complexities of the salmon life cycle, their essential role in the ecosystem, and the effects of human activity on their habitats. By actively participating in raising and releasing salmon, students gain valuable hands-on experience in environmental stewardship. This event is exclusively for participating schools and is not open to the general public.
 
Temporary Road and Boat Launch Closures: In support of the event, the City of Kennewick Parks and Recreation Department announces temporary closures to the East Boat Launch and a segment of Paul Parrish Drive in Kennewick, to protect the safety of participating children. Signage detailing closures and detours will be prominently displayed in the park.
 
The East Boat Launch will be closed from 7 am – 12 pm on April 29th and 30th. Additionally, sections of Paul Parrish Drive, spanning from the East Boat Launch to the Regional Veterans Memorial round-about, will be closed from 7:30 am – 2 pm on April 29th and 30th. Alternative routes behind the Fishing Pond will be available for the public throughout the event.
 
The Department of Parks and Recreation remains dedicated to safeguarding the well-being of all participants and attendees, and appreciates the public's cooperation during these temporary closures.