Besadny Open House Summary 2005
On a chilly, windy Saturday October 8, the Besadny Fisheries Facility hosted an open house for the third year in a row. Although the weather did not cooperate in the morning, it did brighten up in the afternoon. Despite the weather, we still had over 1,200 visitors come through between 9 and 3. We fish-printed 36 T-shirts and the Kewaunee Wrestlers raised a few hundred dollars for their club by selling food. We also hosted a Natural Resource Foundation Tour in the morning. This gave the Foundation members a chance to see our interaction with the public and allowed them to take part in all the day’s festivities. I had return Foundation members from the tour the year before and one couple, who participated in last year’s tour, brought nine of their family members this year.
For the first time ever – we harvested salmon during the open house. Many thanks go out to many people, including the “fish crew” made up of staff from the Wild Rose, Langlade and Lakewood Hatcheries, and the Mishicot and Sturgeon Bay Offices. Thanks to Steve Fafjer (who nearly lost his voice) for taking the time to answer all the questions from the inquisitive public as they watched the egg collection process from the lobby. Also, a big thanks to Paul Peeters and his give a kid an egg undertaking. I wonder how many moms found a little treasure in the laundry. Thanks to the Wardens for being present to answer all the fishing and hunting questions and providing the patrol boat for the public to check out. Thanks also to Dick Sachs and Linda Vogen for manning an informational table and handing out goody bags to all the kids. Many local clubs and the Luxemburg-Casco High School got involved and helped us by providing volunteers to help park cars and fish-print T-shirts.
It was a very successful day, and would not have happened with out a lot of help from
generous people. It’s truly rewarding to observe visitors watch the salmon make their
way up the fish ladder. It never ceases to amaze me -- being a part of something very
unique and special that happens only a few times a year.
Last Revised: 2006
