New Website Offers Every Washingtonian a Chance to Help Salmon

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The Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office is asking the public to take part in efforts to save salmon.

“While the state, tribes, partners and thousands of individuals working together across the state are making some progress on salmon recovery, we can’t do it alone,” said Erik Neatherlin, executive coordinator of the Governor’s Salmon Recovery Office.

The office’s biennial report, titled State of Salmon in Watersheds, shows that 10 of the 14 species of salmon and steelhead in Washington listed as threatened or endangered under the federal Endangered Species Act are not making progress. Of those, five are considered in crisis.



However, according to the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO), the steps the public can take to make a difference for salmon are simple. They are inviting all Washingtonians to check out their new website, Washington Salmon Stewardship. Those interested can visit stateofsalmon.wa.gov and check out the “How to Help” tab. They suggest three easy ways the public can help. These are: planting a tree near water to shade salmon habitats, limiting water use to ensure plenty for fish and reducing chemical pollution by keeping vehicles up to date on repairs. When participants pledge to help in any of these ways, they can mark themselves on the site’s map of statewide salmon stories. 

Neatherlin said, “By taking the pledge to save salmon with these simple actions, you’re becoming a part of a bigger movement committed to preserving not only these beloved fish, but also Washington’s way of life, heritage, cultural identity and economy.”

Pledges will be on display during the Salmon Recovery Funding Board’s upcoming Salmon Recovery Conference, occurring virtually April 28-30. Register for the conference, called “Building a Movement,” on the RCO website, at https://bit.ly/2P2sEnC.