Will You Accept this Fish?

Regional External Affairs' Amy Hopkins holds tight to a finned friend while assisting with a fish release in Rittman, Ohio, sponsored by FirstEnergy's Utility Services Green Team.

July 2, 2025

Wildlife diversity is important – and the fish varietals inhabiting our waterways play a huge role in strengthening the health and vibrancy of aquatic ecosystems.

That’s why FirstEnergy’s Green Teams are again partnering with local parks and organizations to help facilitate planned releases of fish at ponds and creeks across our service territory.

“For the second consecutive year, each Green Team has a $200 budget to spend on a fish or butterfly release project of their choosing,” said Jessica Shaffer, Advanced Scientist and Green Teams Lead. “Our fish release projects have grown in diversity from last year to support causes at four different nature preserves in 2025.”

Fish varietals released are tailored to the specific needs of the park’s waterway and its surrounding ecosystem. And, for some employees, championing the cause fulfills both a personal and professional pursuit.