A citizen Science project for Whatcom County Salmon
The Problem
There are many resources that can help you learn what salmon have been observed in local creeks and rivers, but often there is a disconnect between that data and current reality or expectations. This may be caused by changing stream conditions, shifting climate patterns, or there not being enough eyes on the creek to see the salmon when they do come through.
The Solution (You!)
That's where you come in! By visually observing a stream site twice a week, you can help us understand which, if any, salmon are returning year to year. As a Salmon Spotter, you visit a site of your choice that currently (or historically) supports salmon. Spotters attend a short training that covers the basics of the salmon lifecycle, how to ID different salmon species, and best practices for completing observations. Spotters visit their sites for 15 minutes twice a week throughout the fall and submit their data through an online form. That’s it! It’s that easy to support salmon monitoring in Whatcom County.
2024 Season Is Underway!
The map to the right shows the data currently being collected by our 2024 Salmon Spotter Volunteers. To see last year’s data check out the storymap at the bottom of the page.
Find a Salmon Stream Near You
I have more questions, who do I contact?
If you have additional questions that were not answered in the above FAQ or you are interested in helping but missing our training workshops, please email Sarah Brown at sbrown@n-sea.org