History of the WSCTU Rock Creek Sign

In 1985, inspired by Peter Pagnutti, an avid angler and conservationist from Spokane, WSCTU chapter member Lon Dale came up with the idea for a sign on Rock Creek based on encouraging anglers to limit their kill. The chapter authorized $100 for the sign and Lon donated much of the labor and materials for installation. A local sign painter, Earl Holland, made the sign but did so with an error. It reads "Limit Your Kill Don't Kill Limit" when it should have read "Limit Your Kill Don't Kill Your Limit." But funds were tight and the chapter just went with it. This is not the same as a postal stamp or coin with an error from the mint that can drive things to high prices by collectors, but it certainly makes it a more interesting story!

At the time the land was owned by Dr. Michael Sousa, a Missoula orthopedic surgeon, and he gave approval to install the sign on his property. It is now owned by Five Valleys Land after it was purchased to save the land from development. The WSCTU contributed money to help with the purchase.

One weekend in 1985 Lon with his two boys, Kyle aged 10 and Blane aged 7, headed up to fish Rock Creek and install the sign. After digging holes with a post hole digger they mixed quikrete for the metal posts. The metal posts, instead of wood, proved durable because the sign has stood for 33 years.

The new sign will go up when the earth thaws this spring and Lon and his sons Kyle and Blane have volunteered to help with the installation. What a beautiful circle of memories that is!

We hope the winning bidder of this item will display it with pride and know that the money raised will go directly toward protecting and enhancing Rock Creek.