Jamestown Reservoir

"Great People, Great Location, Great Event"

By: Art Pasley

I want everyone to know that I've been sitting here for a while, trying to put into words the joy and enthusiasm I saw at the Jamestown, North Dakota C.A.S.T. event, hosted by Larry Kuntz and the Bismarck North Dakota Bureau of Reclamation staff. I am amazed at how well they work together and how proud they all seem to be at being involved in the C.A.S.T. for Kids program. Every detail from registration to awarding the plaques to the participants was conducted without a glitch. It was like a family reunion for everyone there. Was I dreaming or do people really enjoy working with each other as much as they seem to.
  "We have a great team here in Bismarck" stated Larry. "Everyone worked really hard preparing for this event and I couldn't be happier with the turnout we have and the support we got from our partners" he concluded.
  With 87 participants in this year's shoreline event, the fishing was very slow but the thrill's never seemed to stop. The BOR has built a great floating dock for fishing on Jamestown Reservoir and I'm told that during the winter months, small mouth bass roam the area immediately beneath the dock, in search of beds for spawning and then return to the deep end of the lake. I suggested an ice fishing event but I don't think that's going happen.
  "I love to fish" stated one of the participants. "Do you fish a lot" I asked. "I've never been until now, but I can go now since I got this new rod and reel" he concluded. The participants in this event ranged in age from 10 to 60. They were so happy to be invited and enjoyed a wonderful day at the lake, with their new rod and reels, tackle boxes, hats, shirts and finally a plaque with their picture inserted, provided by the Bureau of Reclamation.
  In attendance at this years event was Deputy Regional Manager Jarylyn Beek from the Bureau of Reclamation. I had a chance to talk to Ms. Beek and I have to say she is one fine lady. It's not hard to understand why she is so well respected by everyone from the BOR. I was very impressed and look forward to the opportunity to see her at future C.A.S.T. for Kids events.
  If you are planning a trip or vacation and would like to see some of the most beautiful areas in our country, I promise you won't be disappointed with a visit to a Bureau of Reclamation facility. They are among the most well kept and beautiful areas I have ever had the opportunity to visit. Not only do they have great parks to visit, they are just like you, Special People, Helping Special Children, Catch A Special Thrill!

(Click on a picture to enlarge)