Endangered Chinook Salmon Return to California River After 100-Year Absence
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📰 The quick summary: Adult winter-run Chinook salmon have returned to California’s McCloud River after nearly a century, marking a significant milestone in the recovery of this endangered species.
📈 One key stat: Winter-run Chinook salmon is one of just nine species considered to be most at risk of extinction in the near-term, making their return a crucial development for biodiversity conservation.
💬 One key quote: “Salmon are in the McLeod River, and that’s a good thing. But there’s no way it’s for them to get out back to the ocean,” Michael Preston, a Winnemem Wintu tribal member, said.
1️⃣ The big picture: Adult winter-run Chinook salmon have been spotted in northern California’s McCloud River for the first time in nearly a century. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife confirmed their presence with video footage showing a female salmon guarding her nest of eggs. This endangered species is considered among the most at-risk of extinction in the near term according to NOAA. The return follows decades of work by Indigenous tribes, including the Winnemem Wintu, who have fought against dam projects that harm salmon habitats by warming water temperatures beyond the chilly range salmon need for egg-laying.
2️⃣ Why is this good news: This salmon reappearance represents a significant conservation milestone for an endangered species that plays a keystone role in the ecosystem. The return connects directly to Indigenous creation stories and cultural traditions, restoring an important spiritual link for tribes like the Winnemem Wintu. Restoration efforts demonstrate how persistent advocacy can lead to ecological recovery, even after nearly 100 years of absence. The developments at McCloud River build upon other successful salmon restoration projects, like the historic dam removal on the Klamath River which has already allowed salmon to swim freely for the first time in over a century.
3️⃣ What’s next: Constructing a volitional passage for the salmon remains crucial so they can complete their full life cycle from ocean to stream. Tribal efforts continue to bring back wild salmon genetics through work with descendants found in New Zealand rivers. Regardless of political challenges, Indigenous advocates remain committed to full salmon restoration as part of their cultural prophecy.
Read the full story here: The Guardian – After nearly 100 years, adult winter-run Chinook salmon seen in California river
