Wild salmon have inhabited the pristine waters of Alaska since
the late Pleistocene, over 2 million years ago. Runs have come
and gone with the shifting landscape. The adaptive ability of
the five species to survive and thrive is legendary. As long as
spawning and rearing grounds are intact abundant runs will
continue.
Yakutat has never had endangered salmon species, dams or
hatcheries. Through fine management by the Alaska Department of
Fish & Game, runs are thriving.
The salmon return to local rivers throughout the summer and
fall, burning oil reserves as they migrate upstream to lay their
eggs in clean cold water. After spawning they die, providing
food for all manner of wildlife, and release nutrients to supply
the next generation of fry as they emerge from their eggs.
Different species rear and grow in different habitats before
traveling to mature in the remote ocean currents off Alaska,
before returning to their native stream to bring the cycle full
circle.
Salmon are a vital part of the wild spirit of Alaskans. Today,
seaside communities are linked to salmon for food and income as
they have been for thousands of years. Individuals, businesses
and governments committed to fisheries conservation and habitat
renewal ensure that wild salmon will remain the keystone of our
ecology, culture and economy.
Life Cycle
