Cape Disappointment offers salmon fishing series

The Washington State Parks Commission’s Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center at Cape Disappointment State Park will offer a series of interpretive opportunities on Lower Columbia River fishing beginning March 17.

The series of programs and exhibits, called “Celebrating the River: A Confluence of Cultures,” will trace the evolution of salmon fishing in the area from prehistory to the present day.

“This is a great opportunity to explore this part of Pacific Northwest history,” said Jon Schmidt, interpretive specialist with the interpretive center. “Cannery competitions, fish traps, immigrant labor and local fish wars were all part of that era—we thank our partners for helping us bring this lively program to the public.” Schmidt explained that understanding the rich cultural history of the region and the lessons learned may positively impact today’s—and tomorrow’s—decisions. The salmon fishing series is supported by a grant from Humanities Washington and sponsored by State Parks and the Friends of the Columbia River Gateway.

Governor’s Folk Arts Award winner Carlton Appelo will host a special program at 3 p.m. on Saturday. Appelo, the son of local Finnish immigrants and a well-known Lower Columbia River scholar and historian, will highlight the history of the fishing industry in the late 1800s and early 1900s. A shuttle will take visitors from the lower parking lot to the top of the cape, close to the center.

Two more events will complete the series:

• April 14 at 2 p.m.: Songwriter Mary Garvey will perform songs inspired by the local fishing industry, such as “Cranberry” and “Bring the Salmon Home.” Garvey has been recorded by noted singer-songwriter Gordon Bock.

• May 12 at 2 p.m., at the Waikiki Beach, one half mile from the center: A Chinook Cultural event featuring Charles Funk who will outline the fishing history and culture of the Chinook people. This event is free and open to the public.

The Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center at Cape Disappointment State Park, perched on a 200-foot-high cliff, tells the story of Lewis and Clark’s journey. The center near Ilwaco stays open year-round from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Admission fees include center events:

• $5 for adults and seniors.

• $2.50 for children ages 7 to 17.

• $15 for families.

• No fee for children under age 6.

The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission manages a diverse system of more than 120 parks and several recreation programs, including boating, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. The 93-year-old park system will celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2013.