ODFW release - SALEM, Ore. — ODFW is seeking applicants to serve on two public advisory committees that support its Fish Screening and Fish Passage Programs. These programs play a vital role in protecting native fish populations across the state. Through collaboration with landowners, agencies, and conservation partners, the programs work to keep fish moving safely through Oregon’s rivers and streams.  There are two vacancies on both the Fish Screening Task Force and the Fish Passage Task Force. Applications are due by August 31.  In addition to managing a tax credit, grant, and cost share program, the ODFW Fish Screening and Passage Programs have a long history of successful accomplishments, including:  Collaborating with fish passage barrier owners to address fish passage through the ODFW cost share program (ODFW 60%). A tax credit is also available to help offset landowner costs.  Installing over 1,590 fish screens since 2000 and performing regular maintenance on approximately 1,300 fish screens across the state.  Maintaining a statewide priority fish passage list with the 611 fish passage barriers with the highest impact to native migratory fish.  Reviewing fish passage and screening projects to ensure compliance with guidance and criteria. During the first 5 months of 2025, ODFW reviewed and issued 66 fish passage approvals and 44 fish screen inspections, ensuring the projects met ODFW criteria and approved 2 fish passage exemptions after determining that fish passage would have no appreciable benefit to native migratory fish.  These efforts remove barriers that block access to critical spawning and rearing habitat and help prevent fish from becoming trapped in water diversions. The programs share credit for these accomplishments with two public advisory bodies, now in need of four new members.  “Both task forces are instrumental in the implementation of Oregon’s Fish Screening Program and Fish Passage Policy,” said Greg Apke, ODFW Fish Screening and Passage Program Manager. “Task Force members bring different perspectives into the fish screening and passage arena, which helps create a program responsive to fish and societal needs.”