Why it matters
Why spotters matter.
There are many resources that can tell you what salmon have been observed in local creeks, but that data often lags behind current reality. Stream conditions change, climate patterns shift, and sometimes there simply are not enough eyes on the creek to see the salmon when they do come through.
By visually observing a stream site twice a week, you help us understand which salmon, if any, are returning year to year. Spotters choose a site that currently supports salmon or historically did, and every visit adds to the picture.
How it works
Becoming a spotter is simple.
- Get trainedAttend a short, free training that covers the salmon life cycle, how to identify the different species, and best practices for observations. We provide all the supplies you need.
- Watch your siteVisit your chosen creek site for 15 minutes twice a week throughout the fall and record which salmon you see. Visits where you see no salmon count too, and we ask you to report those as well.
- Submit your sightingsSend in your observations through our online form at Citsci.org. If you would rather record on paper and submit later, we can provide printed datasheets.
That’s it! It’s that easy to support salmon monitoring in Whatcom County.
What spotters find
The data our spotters collect.
Every sighting our spotters log builds a clearer picture of when and where salmon return to Whatcom County creeks. Explore the story map below to see what the project has found so far.
Where spotters watch
Creek sites across Whatcom County.
Spotters pick their own site from creeks around the county. Use the map to browse public salmon creek spots and find one near you.
Each orange pin is a public creek spot where salmon can be watched. Spotters can also monitor other sites. Ask us about a creek near you.
Who can do it
What to know before you sign up.
Cost
Free! Training and all supplies are provided.
Time commitment
15 minutes, twice a week, throughout the fall
Ages
Everyone is welcome. Volunteers under 18 need guardian approval and reliable site access. It makes a great family or friend group activity!
Training
Required, with case-by-case flexibility if the dates have passed. Reach out if attending is a barrier.
What to bring
A way to get to your site and clothing for the weather. A cell phone helps for submitting data, but paper datasheets work too.
Live on a creek? If your property has a salmon-bearing creek, monitoring from your own backyard is an even easier way to help out. Contact us and we can look into it together.
Join the project
Become a Salmon Spotter this fall!
Questions? Email Sarah at sbrown@n-sea.org or call 360-715-0283 x109.
Looking for something more casual?
Salmon Sighting events.
Salmon Sighting events are our fall open houses, a different thing from being a Spotter. Each year we pick a few streams in Whatcom County to visit with our outreach booth, games, and prizes in celebration of the return of spawning salmon. Events are free and great for all ages.
