How do I get involved?

There are as many opportunities as there are schools and teachers in your area. Nevertheless, it is extremely important that you find a teacher who is very excited about the idea and will work with you throughout the entire process; the teacher who chooses to undertake this program is the secret to its success. The Diablo Valley Fly Fishers has successfully administered a program for a number of years. They currently have over a dozen classes participating in the program.

What are the requirements for setting up a program?

  • Interested teacher.
  • Permission of school principal.
  • A letter of agreement with the school, including a transportation arrangement for field trips.
  • Attending the required "In-Service" class program held by the California Department of Fish & Game, East Bay Regional Parks and the local fly clubs. Check the CA DFG Web site for more information.
  • Instructions for teacher to follow in setting up classroom aquarium.
  • Aquarium and other related equipment.

How can I get funding?

Trout in the Classroom projects are partially funded by Diablo Valley Fly Fishers (DVFF). The equipment costs around $360.00 for the "Cool Works Chiller System." Schools will often have small grants available for programs like Trout in the classroom.

Other sources of funding include:

  • Local Banks
  • Civic Groups
  • Energy Companies
  • National Fish and Wildlife
  • Parent Teacher Associations
  • Contra Costa County Fish & Wildlife Committee
  • Alameda County Fish & Wildlife Committee

What equipment do we need?

Trout in the Classroom aquarium system starts with a 10 gallon tank and a Cool Works Ice Probe. The outer foam box and added insulation for the aquarium allow the water temperature to be maintained at 48 degrees to 56 degrees.

What permits do I need before I start?

  • Permit from DFG for transporting and having the eggs is required and must be filed out and returned upon release of the fry.
  • Permit for a field trip to the local lake for release and permission to release from the local governing body (EBMUD, East Bay Regional Parks or CA DFG).

DVFF members are encouraged to participate in this program.