The US Army has a post up today about their close relationship with the Nisqually Indian Tribe and how it has resulted in increased habitat for chum salmon. The article includes a great photo gallery of a recent community event to celebrate the chum and community habitat restoration efforts.
From the article:
Laboring to continue upstream, a lone chum salmon spent its last moments of life being revered and celebrated by a gathering of people along the shore of Muck Creek in Roy, Wash.
Residents of Roy, Nisqually Tribal members, Pierce County personnel and members of the Fort Lewis team were all on hand to welcome home their honored guest at the Roy City Park Jan. 23.
For chum salmon battling their way up Muck Creek, the homecoming marks the end of a life’s journey, which can exceed some 2,000 miles of travel. Along the way, the fish face many obstacles in reaching their spawning grounds.
Todd Zuchowski, Fort Lewis Fish and Wildlife biologist and Washington native, said the nine-mile section of Muck Creek that cuts through Fort Lewis lands is a critical one for spawning salmon. Fed by crisp, clean spring water, Exiter Springs is the most productive area for spawning on Fort Lewis, he said. The efforts are not only for the health of the fish, he said.
Fort Lewis teamed up with several agencies to accomplish the restoration work.
“We historically had done quite a few projects with the Nisqually Tribe,” Zuchowski said.
He credits the close ties with the tribe with the success of the productive restoration efforts.
“We enjoy a strong partnership with the Nisqually Tribe,” Zuchowski said.
