“High” salmon returns in 2022 are not a sign of true, sustainable numbers
This year is being pointed to as a banner year for salmon and steelhead returning to Idaho. Politicians and news outlets have been sharing the big bump in numbers in 2022, implying that it is a harbinger of good years ahead and a sign of salmon populations recovering, even though the Lower Snake River Dams remain in place.
However, the long-term reality for salmon runs remains one of steep decline towards extinction and dispels any meaning derived from recent short-term increases in return numbers.
The Grand Salmon team finishes their 1,000 mile source to sea journey.
A Grand Salmon team member paddles by ships and barges on the Columbia River towards the end of their three month journey. Photo courtesy of The Grand Salmon. ASTORIA, OREGON – On Friday July 15th, “The Grand Salmon Source to Sea” team will complete their 1,000 mile...
Addressing public safety at low head dams
American Whitewater’s database of whitewater accidents and fatalities, maintained since 1972, documents that 10% of river fatalities nationwide are a result of individuals getting caught in a low head dam hydraulic. These dams are generally defined as a manmade...
“The Grand Salmon” team welcomed by Nez Perce in Lewiston, where the Snake River ‘is dead.’
The Grand Salmon team welcomed to shore by Nez Perce people and community members in Lewiston, ID. Photo credit: Megan Mack The Grand Salmon Source to Sea team is not only paddling 1,000 miles in solidarity to raise awareness about dwindling salmon populations in the...Read moreThe potential tied to salmon recovery and river restoration is too great to pass up, and the threat of inaction to our rivers, communities, and wild salmon is too real to ignore.