When the local chapter of Trout Unlimited reached out to HHS CWW teacher Vanessa Haflich asking for a student nomination to the Future Fisheries Citizen Review Panel, Hamilton High School senior Avery Stevens was the first student who came to mind.
Ms. Haflich said that “Avery is an excellent addition to the Future Fisheries Review Council [because] she demonstrates integrity in everything she does, and has a strong passion for ecology and environmental science.”
Avery is already a student board member for the Bitterroot Chapter of Trout Unlimited. With that experience under her belt, there is no doubt that she will be a valuable panelist for the citizen review board. Trout Unlimited was instrumental in lobbying for the passage of the Future Fisheries Improvement Act for which the panel was created. The panel biannually reviews grant proposals for projects that make important improvements to Montana waters and wild fish habitats. Their funding recommendations are then forwarded to the Fish & Wildlife Commission for their consideration.
Avery is the only student on the board. Her term started Aug 28, 2025, and she said it gives her a chance “to give back to the rivers and landscapes I love while learning from experienced conservation leaders. It’s a chance to share a youth perspective and help ensure future generations can experience the same healthy Montana waters that I value today. I'm truly honored to be a part of such meaningful and impactful work.”
We are so proud of Avery and her dedication to conservation efforts in Montana! We can’t wait to see where her good work leads her!