OLYMPIA–A new report released by the Governor’s Salmon Recovery Office shows that several populations of salmon in Washington improved but most still are struggling and face extinction.
Of the 14 species of salmon and steelhead in Washington listed as at risk of extinction under the federal Endangered Species Act, six are improving. However, eight still are struggling or in crisis.
The report, the State of Salmon in Watersheds Executive Summary, and website noted that four species improved since the previous report in 2022.
“Salmon are critical to our economy and way of life,” said Megan Duffy, director of the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office, which staffs the Governor’s Salmon Recovery Office. “They support our commercial and recreational fishing industry. They are food for other animals including endangered Southern Resident orcas. They are key to Tribal culture and treaty rights and they support many tourist communities. It is encouraging to see there is progress but the number of salmon populations still struggling reminds us that now is not the time to let up. We must continue investing in saving salmon so we all may benefit.”
The biennial report and accompanying website note salmon are facing challenges that are exacerbated by climate change. Those challenges include loss of habitat, waters that are too warm and more wildfires that destroy shade-providing trees on riverbanks.
“Salmon face many challenges throughout their lives,” said Erik Neatherlin, director of the Governor’s Salmon Recovery Office. “Climate change causes more flooding that flushes young salmon downstream before they are ready. It is warming the ocean, which also is becoming more acidic. And when salmon return home, they face rivers that are too warm and don’t have enough water. The restoration projects happening all around the state are an essential piece of the puzzle for reversing these trends.”
Salmon populations in Washington have been declining for generations. As Washington grew, many places where salmon live were altered or destroyed. In 1991, the federal government declared the first species of salmon in the Pacific Northwest as endangered. By the end of that decade, salmon and steelhead listings covered three-quarters of the state.
The report details the challenges faced by salmon caused by climate change, habitat degradation, blocked migration routes, pollution, and predation by other wildlife. However, there are some bright spots in the report.
“Four salmon species improved, and we have seen more money invested in salmon recovery in the past several years.” Neatherlin said. “This has allowed more partners to come together to do more for salmon. We know that the only way to have a future for salmon and people is by working together.”
The report notes that since 2005, 3,866 barriers to fish passage have been corrected, 5,102 miles of stream have been made accessible to salmon and more than
53,000 acres along waterways were restored.
“Tribes, partners and communities are working all around the state,” Neatherlin said. “In spite of growing challenges, we are seeing some signs of progress to save these iconic fish. We must double down on these efforts, and we must continue to work together.”