Wildlife Welfare

Wild Salmon Conservation and Fish Welfare

Pacific and Atlantic salmon populations have declined dramatically due to dams, habitat loss, and overfishing. Conservation of wild salmon serves both biodiversity and the welfare of these ecologically vital fish.

Key Facts

Atlantic salmon are now listed as endangered in many US rivers
Pacific salmon populations have collapsed in many California and Pacific Northwest rivers
Dams block salmon migration and increase water temperatures beyond thermal tolerances
Hatchery supplementation can support depleted runs but reduces genetic diversity
Salmon are keystone species whose bodies fertilize entire forest ecosystems

Welfare Considerations

Wild salmon in degraded habitats experience chronic thermal stress, blocked migration routes, and increased disease exposure. Fish struggling to reach spawning grounds in degraded rivers experience prolonged physiological distress. Dam removal, riparian restoration, and reduced fishing pressure have produced measurable recovery in some systems. The welfare of wild salmon populations is inseparable from the ecological health of the watersheds they inhabit.

What You Can Do

Support dam removal and fish passage improvement projects in your region
Choose only MSC-certified wild salmon and avoid purchasing depleted stock species
Reduce nitrogen and phosphorus runoff from your property to protect stream quality
Donate to salmon conservation and watershed restoration organizations