California's Salmon and Steelhead: The Struggle to Restore an Imperiled Resource

Millions of salmon and steelhead once filled California streams, providing a plentiful and sustainable food resource for the original peoples of the region. However, over the years, dams and irrigation diversions have reduced natural spawning habitat, and river pollution has hit hard at fish populations, leading to the decline of many species. This volume documents the reasons for the decline and offers practical suggestions about how it might be reversed. The California salmon story is presented in human perspective, covering its historical, economic, cultural, and political facets, as well as its biological aspects.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 330 pages
Publication date: 19 August 2022
Publisher: University of California Press

California's rivers were once teeming with millions of salmon and steelhead, providing a bountiful and sustainable food source for the region's indigenous people. However, over time, dams and irrigation diversions have reduced the natural spawning habitat of these fish, from an estimated 6,000 miles to fewer than 300. River pollution has also taken a toll on fish populations, leading to a staggering 80 percent decline in recent decades. One species, the San Joaquin River spring chinook, became extinct shortly after World War II, while many others are on the brink of extinction.

This comprehensive volume explores the reasons behind the decline of California's salmon and steelhead populations, offering practical solutions for their recovery. The California salmon story is presented from a human perspective, encompassing its historical, economic, cultural, and political aspects, as well as its biological dimensions. While some of the material in this book has been available for half a century, no comparable work has been published to date.

The contributions in this volume feature a diverse range of voices, including Indians whose history is intertwined with the survival of the salmon and steelhead upon which they rely; commercial trollers who witness the vanishing of their livelihood and unique lifestyle; biologists and fishery managers concerned about the loss of river water suitable for fish and the impact of hatcheries on native gene pools; women who fish as a means of sustenance; conservation-minded citizens; foresters; economists; outdoor writers; engineers; politicians; and city youth who are actively restoring streambeds.

The fate of California's salmon and steelhead has far-reaching consequences for all Californians. These fish play a vital role in the state's ecosystem, supporting biodiversity, regulating water flow, and providing recreational opportunities. The decline of these species threatens the health and stability of the entire river system, impacting water quality, fish populations, and the overall ecological balance.

To address the decline of California's salmon and steelhead, this volume presents a range of strategies and solutions. It emphasizes the importance of restoring degraded habitats, improving water quality, implementing sustainable fishing practices, and engaging in collaborative efforts to protect and conserve these fish species. It also highlights the need for public awareness and education about the significance of salmon and steelhead conservation, fostering a sense of responsibility and stewardship among citizens.

The recovery of California's salmon and steelhead populations will require a collective effort from government agencies, non-profit organizations, private sector stakeholders, and local communities. It will require the dedication and commitment of individuals and organizations to work together towards a common goal. By implementing these strategies and solutions, we can help restore the health and vitality of California's rivers, ensuring that these iconic fish species continue to thrive for generations to come.

In conclusion, California's salmon and steelhead story is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of nature, but also to the human impact on our environment. This volume provides valuable insights into the decline of these fish species and offers practical solutions for their recovery. By working together, we can preserve the rich biodiversity and ecological balance of California's rivers and ensure that these iconic fish species continue to play a vital role in the state's heritage and culture.

Weight: 499g
Dimension: 229 x 152 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780520337848