The East Yellowstone Chapter of Trout Unlimited is gearing up for the annual fish rescue from local irrigation canals. With canals shutting down around Oct. 15, volunteers are needed to help with netting and transferring the fish in buckets to an aeration tank.

At the end of each day, the trout are released into their home river. The task can be arduous climbing in and out of the ditches and carrying heavy buckets.

‘We could not complete this annual fall ritual without the help of volunteers” stated chapter President Larry Timchak.

Waders are recommended but not required as some volunteers can remain on the bank. The work typically begins at 8 in the morning and is usually completed by 4 p.m. Morning snacks and lunch are provided to volunteers. Volunteers meet at Rocky Mountain Sports in Cody prior to heading to the canals.

Fish will be rescued from the Cody, Garland and Willwood canals with an estimated start date of Oct. 18. Dates and times may vary depending upon actual conditions. Last year nearly 2,000 trout and whitefish were rescued and returned to the river.

If you are interested in volunteering, contact Ted Richmond at 913-485-8556 or Dave Sweet at 307-899-9959. Volunteers under the age of 18 must have a signed parental consent form.