WDFW, nonprofit partner to improve Tucannon River salmon habitat with nutrient enhancements
SPOKANE- The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife and Tri-State Steelheaders will be distributing more than 1,500 carcasses from adult salmon previously used for hatchery spawning in southeast Washington's Tucannon River on Saturday, Jan. 24. Spawned this fall at Lyons Ferry Fish Hatchery, the carcasses will enhance nutrients in the waterway for the benefit of other fish and wildlife.
The carcasses, many in the 20 to 30-pound range, will provide food for aquatic insects and other species that juvenile salmon, steelhead, and other fish eat, a natural way of recycling. Otters, mink, and other wildlife also consume the carcasses.
"Historically, salmon and steelhead provided these important nutrients by returning in large numbers to the rivers to spawn, die, and decay," said WDFW fish biologist Michael Gallinat. "In recent years though, too few salmon and steelhead have returned to the Tucannon River to provide the necessary nutrients to maintain a productive food web. This work will help to do just that."
Hatchery carcass distribution has been used to enhance nutrients in waters throughout the state for decades. Several research studies have shown that distributing salmon carcasses helps maintain streams as healthy salmon habitat.
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife works to preserve, protect and perpetuate fish, wildlife and ecosystems while providing sustainable fish and wildlife recreational and commercial opportunities.