SCRATCHPAD
Spring salmon return to the Columbia
By LISSA BREWER
COAST WEEKEND EDITOR
Migrating from freshwater streams and
rivers, the North Coast’s prized Chinook
salmon have begun their annual spring
journey along the Columbia River. These
regional icons are one of fi ve salmon species
to call the river home, sharing the waters
with sockeye, coho, chum and pink salmon.
These young fi sh will seek respite in estu-
aries along their downstream journey, mak-
ing their way toward the Pacifi c Ocean.
After living in streams for months or even
several years, salmon undergo physiolog-
ical changes that allow them to survive in
ON THE
COVER
Chinook salmon can be found migrating down-
stream along the Columbia River in the spring.
saltwater seas. The growing fi sh will make
their home in the ocean for between two and
fi ve years before returning to spawn in their
native freshwater streams.
Along their route, the traveling salmon
face many challenges, navigating human
made habitats, marine debris, and, of course,
fi shing. While they do make a delicious
meal, many salmon species in the Pacifi c
Northwest are at risk of extinction. Colum-
bia River Chinook salmon are now classi-
fi ed as endangered, with a fi shing limit of
one per day. Across the region, in as much as
40% of their historical range, all species of
wild salmon are already considered to have
gone extinct.
As a keystone species, the decline of
salmon threatens to disrupt the region’s
waterway ecosystems, limiting food sources
for marine mammals and other sea dwell-
ers. As abundant as salmon seems on coastal
seafood plates, it may seem a surprise that
the iconic Northwest fi sh is quite threat-
ened. To help preserve its habitat, consider
purchasing wild caught salmon from abun-
dant areas like Alaska, as well as advocat-
ing for the establishment of parks and wild-
life preserves.
In the meantime, the return of spring run
salmon is a cause of celebration for many.
Local tribes have long celebrated welcom-
ing ceremonies for the fi sh. A fresh catch is
an opportunity to share a dish and memory
with loved ones, enjoying the savory taste of
these beloved Northwest fi sh.
STAFF AND CONTRIBUTORS
COAST WEEKEND EDITOR
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY
THURSDAY
MARCH 31
2022
Eric Wiegardt is an
artist working on
the Long Beach
Peninsula.
PAINTING ON
THE PENINSULA
OCEAN PARK ARTIST OFFERS
CLASSES IN WATERCOLOR, ACRYLICS
LISSA BREWER
CALENDAR COORDINATOR
SARAH SMITH
PAGE 11
GEARHART
AND SEASIDE
ART WALKS
PAGES 4-5
INVASIVE
ANIMALS OF THE
NORTH COAST
PAGE 6
CONTRIBUTORS
REBECCA LEXA
BARBARA LLOYD McMICHAEL
BRIAN MEDFORD
MALIA RIGGS
HIKING AT CAPE
DISAPPOINTMENT
PAGE 8
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