Dear OWAC Members,

Things are wonderful here in Bishop.  We've had a tremendous winter so far; the snow pack is looking great. Super for skiing and even better for coming spring and summer sports! Tim Alpers said it's a real "drought buster!" Death Valley Chamber of Commerce is expecting an incredible spring wildflower showing as well. The Eastern Sierra is alive and well!

Today's news: The Bishop Chamber has contracted with Tim Alpers to stock trophy-size trout on the Lower Owens River. The first plant was last week and we'll continue to drop fish through the general opener in April. Many folks still can't believe that you can go skiing or snowboarding and trout fishing all in one vacation. Mammoth Mountain (just 40 minutes north of Bishop) offers world class skiing, and Pleasant Valley Reservoir plus the Lower Owens River (5-10 minutes from downtown Bishop) are open for fishing year-round.

Coming soon: Blake Jones Trout Derby, Saturday, March 15th. Since 1968, this annual pre-season derby has lured anglers of all ages to Pleasant Valley Reservoir. Over $10,000 in cash and prizes to be awarded. Adult and Kids categories include Blind Bogey, Biggest Trout & More! Call 760/873-8405 or see www.bishopvisitor.com for more information and entry forms.

As always, thanks for your continuing support of recreation in the beautiful Eastern Sierra!

Tawni Thomson

Executive Director

Bishop Chamber of Commerce

760-873-8405