ADF&G staff continue to celebrate the success of Alaska’s sustainable fisheries in our unique “Wild Salmon” style, of course.

The “Copper River Queen” is the second sculpture of its kind created by Katie Sechrist, Division of Commercial Fisheries Information Officer with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game in Anchorage. In 2009, the sculpture “Copper KR” (“King of the River”) was spawned to life by Katie with the help of Ken Marsh, Division of Sport Fish Information Officer, and Greg Landeis of Black Spruce Art in Soldotna. The fish art was created as part of Anchorage’s Wild Salmon on Parade community program and in celebration of Alaska’s 50th anniversary of statehood.

Cordova has a similar salmon sculpture creation and display program Copper River Reds on the Run. The organizers, Copper River/Prince William Sound Marketing Association, encouraged Katie to submit an entry and fish fever once again took hold. Copper KR’s petite salmon sister was born.