Harnessing the Power of Science
To create the greatest impact for wild salmon, our scientists work at the cutting edge of research and technology.
We Are Driven by Evidence
From the lab to the field, everything we do is based on the latest science. We listen to the evidence, not special interests.
Wild Salmon are a Keystone Species
Salmon are the foundation of ecosystems across the North Pacific, and a critical link between the ocean and waters upstream.
Feed More than 137 Wildlife Species
Salmon are essential to the diets of species as diverse as crustaceans, bears, and orcas.
Bring Nutrients to Forestlands
On their journeys upstream, salmon bring vital nutrients from the ocean all the way to interior forestlands.
Maintain Healthy Watersheds
The simple presence of salmon in streams helps to create healthy habitat for a wide range of species.
Highlights in Science
How proactive salmon conservation can deliver global benefits
A new study in the journal Fisheries shows how a salmon-focused ecosystem protection strategy in the North Pacific can deliver meaningful results in the global drive to protect biodiversity.
Our Science Director’s Take on the IUCN Threat Assessment
A new scientific study of danger to the world’s freshwater fauna is out, and its findings are startling.
Lessons for a Fish-Friendly Future in Mongolia
As America reckons with dams, Mongolian scientists are taking note. It could change the course of conservation.
Wild Salmon Center and Hatcheries
We’re frequently asked for our position on hatcheries. We’re not against hatcheries. But we are FOR wild fish. Here’s what that means.
Hatchery Fish Compete with Wild Fish
Every year, hatcheries flood the Pacific with millions of fish. In both ocean and freshwater, hatchery fish compete with wild fish for the same resources.
Hatcheries Impact Wild Fish Diversity
Hatchery fish are less genetically diverse than wild salmon. When they interbreed—and they do—this diminishes the fitness and diversity of wild fish, impacting their chances of long-term survival.
No New Hatcheries in Strongholds
We advocate for no hatchery expansions in watersheds where they exist today. In strongholds that are hatchery-free, we aim to ensure that wild fish remain the priority.
Science team in the field
Sockeye Sampling | Kimsquit, B.C.
Our team gathering specimens in Kimsquit, British Columbia. Sockeye are the third most prevalent salmon species.
Field Research | Koeye, B.C.
Our science is grounded in real-world knowledge of the strongholds we protect, like this excursion to the Koeye River in British Columbia.
Taimen Monitoring | Mongolia
Our team monitoring taimen in Mongolia. Taimen are the world's largest salmonid species, and can surpass six feet in length.
Research Partners | Dean River, B.C.
We partner with organizations across the North Pacific to deliver powerful research insights that benefit everyone.
Local Taimen Study | Hoikkado, Japan
Our International Taimen Initiative is driven by leading scientists with deep knowledge of their local watersheds.
Juvenile Salmon Monitoring | Oregon, USA
Our own scientists work daily in places like the Oregon North Coast to check on river conditions and the health of local salmon populations.
News From the Field
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