JEFFERSONVILLE, NY — The Upper Delaware Chapter of Trout Unlimited and Jeff Bank have together sponsored Trout in the Classroom at Sullivan West Elementary School. On May 12, fifth grade students will celebrate the eighth annual Trout Release Day at the junction of Route 52 and North Branch Road, where owner Jim Hughson has donated the use of the park. The property runs along Callicoon Creek and is maintained in memory of his daughter, Lauren, a great lover of the outdoors.

Eggs that were received in classrooms in the fall have now reached the fingerling stage. Students will release the brown trout they raised into the Callicoon Creek. Following the release, students will enjoy a picnic lunch with live entertainment. Volunteers from Trout Unlimited, who have been providing advice and assistance throughout the project, will give fly-casting demonstrations, teach fly-tying, entomology and the art of wood carving a trout.

Students have been journaling their observations during the stages of trout development and monitoring the health of the tank. Their observations have been incorporated into all areas of the curriculum.

Events will begin at approximately 10 a.m.; a rain date has been scheduled for May 13. To volunteer, call Trout Unlimited at 845/887-4714 or the school at 845/482-4610.