The Prophet Aquatic Research and Outreach Center was extremely busy Saturday for an event that has continuously grown in attendance and diversity each year.
The seventh annual Vamos A Pescar, Let’s Go Fishing, event drew families from all across the Emporia community to take part in kayaking, fishing, educational sessions and so much more. On hand for the event were various local and state organizations including representatives from the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks.
Among those representing the agency was KDWP Secretary Brad Loveless. He tells KVOE News these are the types of events that allow their agency to “connect with the community.”
This was the second year in a row the event was hosted by PAROC on the ESU campus and ESU Provost Dr. Brent Thomas says he hopes it continues to host the event for years to come. In just the two and a half years since the center opened, Thomas says the community has truly embraced PAROC and its mission to help educate the community.
Originally beginning as an event targeted at the Hispanic population, Vamos has grown to welcome residents of all ethnic backgrounds over the past seven years. KDWP Biologist Ernesto Flores says it is great to see so many young residents taking part in the event as an appreciation for the great outdoors is something he and others are working very hard to preserve.
Also on hand for the event were the Emporia Public Library, various outdoor experts from across the state, the Emporia Fire Department, Hispanics of Today and Tomorrow and many more. Along with teaching youth about the various rules and regulations of fishing, the event also featured various prizes and a free community picnic with hot dogs, hamburgers and fish tacos.
Photos by Tagan Trahoon/KVOE NewsÂ
