Salmon Extinction Efforts Intensify in Pacific Northwest Amid Rising Fishing Restrictions

Salmon populations and the fishing industry are facing significant challenges across multiple regions, highlighting tensions between conservation efforts and economic impacts. In the Pacific Northwest, particularly Washington and Oregon's Snake River tributaries, efforts to restore salmon and steelhead populations continue amid warnings of approaching extinction momentum, with local communities and stakeholders deeply involved in ongoing restoration projects. Northern California has seen a record return of salmon to the San Joaquin River, marking a restoration milestone, yet fishing restrictions have severely hurt local economies reliant on commercial and recreational fishing. Meanwhile, political and industry conflicts emerge elsewhere, such as in Australia where opposition to offshore fish farms reflects broader industry instability and community concerns. In Scotland, salmon farmers defend the welfare standards on fish farms amid criticism, emphasizing their commitment to animal care. In Alaska, wild-catch harvesters strongly oppose Governor Mike Dunleavy's proposal to allow salmon farming, fearing it threatens the state's leadership in fresh wild salmon and calls for embracing both wild and farmed salmon industries instead of relying on imports.