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Campaign

Celebrating Wild Abundance: Case Studies of Wild Fish Resilience

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Salmon River Coho spawners (post-hatchery avg)

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increase in Metolius redband trout redds

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increase in McKenzie wild trout density

Data sources: ODFW population surveys, NFS monitoring data. Reviewed 2025

Campaign Timeline

1938

Hatchery stocking begins in Metolius

Stocking of hatchery rainbow trout begins in the Metolius River

1975

Salmon River Hatchery built

Salmon River Hatchery constructed, first releasing yearling Coho in 1978

1996

Metolius hatchery stocking ceased

Stocking of rainbow trout in the Metolius River ends after advocacy from wild fish advocates

2005

ODFW determines hatchery is principal threat

ODFW biologists determine the Salmon River Hatchery is the principal threat to wild salmon

2008

Salmon River Coho hatchery ended

Coho hatchery program at Salmon River Hatchery ends based on scientific evidence

2013

McKenzie study shows 300%+ wild trout increase

Citizen science study demonstrates more than 300% increase in native Redside trout density after hatchery removal

We're sharing stories of wild, native salmon and trout populations that are flourishing in the absence of hatchery programs: either because a hatchery program never existed or has been removed. If you would like to contribute to this collection, please fill out the form at the bottom of the page.

Preserving the integrity of wild fish populations in the Pacific Northwest is crucial for maintaining the ecological balance and health of our rivers and streams. Wild fish play a critical role in the food chain and serve as an indicator of overall ecosystem health. They have evolved to thrive in their specific habitats, adapting over time to unique water conditions, food sources, and other factors. However, the introduction of hatchery fish into these habitats can have a significant and negative impact on wild fish populations, disrupting the delicate balance and threatening their survival. For this reason, it is important to prioritize the protection of wild fish and eliminate the release of hatchery fish into these rivers and streams. By doing so, we can help to conserve the unique and valuable natural resources and return the Pacific Northwest to all wild abundance.

That is why we are sharing stories of wild, native salmon and trout populations that are flourishing in the absence of hatchery programs: either because a hatchery program never existed or has been removed. See below for a few prime examples of all wild rivers that are flourishing in the absence of hatchery interference.

If you would like to contribute to this collection, please fill out the form at the bottom of the page.