The Eel, Klamath, and Smith rivers are among some of the West’s most storied fly fishing streams. For generations, Californians have ventured north, under the towering Redwoods in pursuit of wild adventure and the opportunity to enjoy fly fishing for anadromous fish, like chinook salmon and steelhead. Native Fish Society’s presentation will touch on three ongoing efforts to revive the legendary streams of the North Coast and their remarkable wild, native fish.

 

Native Fish Fellow, Samantha Kannry will share her groundbreaking research on the ecology and genetics of the Eel River’s wild steelhead populations. Her research has expanded what we know about where these fish live, the ancient genetic differences between summer and winter steelhead, and why we need to take action now to protect these distinct runs from extinction. She will conclude her presentation with a preview of her upcoming steelhead research.

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Native Fish Southern Oregon Regional Coordinator Kirk Blaine will share about the work of our staff, volunteers and partners to advance the largest river restoration in history - the removal of the four lower dams on the Klamath River. Kirk will detail the timeline for dam removal and provide information on our advocacy to transition the newly free-flowing river and its fisheries to wild fish. The future of the Klamath represents one of the most compelling and optimistic stories for wild fish in the Northwest.

 

Finally, Executive Director, Mark Sherwood will provide a brief overview about the Native Fish Society’s regional programs and service and discuss our ongoing work to permanently protect California’s healthiest, free-flowing river, the Smith from the threat of open-pit strip mining.

About Native Fish Society

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Native Fish Society exists to cultivate a groundswell of public support necessary to revive abundant wild fish, free-flowing rivers, and thriving local communities across the Pacific Northwest. We create this momentum by supporting people from British Columbia to Northern California to take action for wild rivers and native fish. Our work is focused on forging lasting relationships to educate, inspire, and mobilize everyone in keeping fish and rivers forever wild. Our River Steward Program supports passionate local people with the tools and resources they need to become effective advocates for their backyard rivers and native fish. Our Native Fish Fellowship is a multidisciplinary volunteer collaboration that elevates new perspectives, skills and experiences in our community and environmental work. Our Women for Wild Fish initiative is a movement focused on encouraging and supporting women who are joining together as advocates, activists, and leaders in the recovery of wild, native fish.