Since mid-July, Fisheries and Oceans Canada has reported that approximately one million fall chum salmon have migrated from the Bering Sea into the Yukon River. Despite this increase, experts caution that it does not necessarily indicate a positive trend for this salmon species.
In 2020, there was a significant decline in chum salmon numbers, raising concerns among researchers. Sebastian Jones, a wildlife analyst at the Yukon Conservation Society, expressed uncertainty about the fluctuations in salmon populations, highlighting the limited understanding and control over these ecosystems.
Researchers note that Canadian-origin salmon constitute around 12% of the returning fish, lower than the usual 20-30% range. While still below optimal levels, Jones acknowledged that this year’s numbers are an improvement compared to recent years.
In the previous year, approximately 25,000 chum salmon crossed into Canada, with hopes for 100,000 fish this year. However, Jones emphasized that the ideal range would be between 150,000 and 250,000 chum salmon entering the Yukon.
Stephanie Peacock, a scientist at the Pacific Salmon Foundation, highlighted the importance of chum salmon as a late-migrating species that provides essential nutrients in the fall, alongside chinook salmon. Both species have experienced declines, with chum salmon showing a more rapid decrease in recent years.
Research is ongoing in the Bering Sea, the starting point for these salmon’s journey, where changes like increased water temperature and industrial fishing activities have raised concerns. Peacock stressed the need for cautious optimism, considering the long-term decline in chum salmon populations and the ongoing environmental challenges.
Overall, while the increased number of chum salmon entering the Yukon River is a positive development, experts emphasize the need for continued monitoring and conservation efforts to ensure the species’ long-term survival.