WASHOE COUNTY NEWS RELEASE
Washoe County’s Community Services Department, the Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and corporate partner Cabela’s will host a family event Saturday, May 18, at Crystal Peak Park to celebrate the opening of the Verdi Pond.
The Verdi Pond and Nature Area project began in 2008 and included the restoration of the pond, fishing piers, restroom facilities, benches, picnic tables, parking and interpretive signage and the development of a nature loop trail. The 56-acre Crystal Peak Park is located just west of Verdi on Old Highway 40, 10 miles west of Reno.
“Although we experienced some challenges in building the Verdi Pond, the result is definitely worth it,” said Washoe County Parks Superintendent Eric Crump. “It’s a premier community facility located in a beautiful setting and surrounded by an area rich in history. We’re grateful the County, NDOW, Cabela’s and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service worked together to find the funding, primarily through grants, for the improvements.”
The celebration will focus on family events, including nature-themed crafts, raffle prizes and free fishing for kids. Nevada state fishing regulations require individuals 12 years and older to have a valid fishing license.
The Lahontan National Fish Hatchery Complex will be stocking 3,000 native Pilot Peak Lahontan cutthroat trout (LCT) and will have an interactive information booth about the native fishes of the Truckee River Basin. Biologists will be on hand to talk about the Pilot Peak Program and guide kids through a game where they will learn about the life cycle of the LCT.
Local dignitaries including County Manager Katy Simon and NDOW Director Tony Wasley will speak at 10 a.m., and the fishing event will be 8 a.m.-noon.
NDOW will also have the conservation education trailer set up to provide anglers with information on fishing and fishing opportunities throughout the state. Kids are encouraged to bring their own poles and bait/lures; however, NDOW does have a limited number of loaner poles that will be available on a first come, first serve basis.
All children participating in the event will be entered in a raffle for the chance to win prizes donated by Cabela’s and NDOW.
