Program on the Environment

There are three predominant species of salmon within the Lake Washington Watershed, also known as Water Resource Inventory Area 8 (WRIA 8). These species include Coho, Chinook, and Sockeye salmon. Within Washington state, salmon are integral for a multitude of reasons such as promoting healthy riparian ecosystems and fueling the state’s booming economy. However, there seems to be a lack of awareness from residents surrounding the watershed regarding both the state of the local salmon populations and the factors impacting the populations. This lack of awareness further disconnects communities from their local environment, as well as, restricts more effective conservation and restoration programs. The purpose of my research was to work to understand how much knowledge individuals around the Lake Washington Watershed have regarding the local salmon species, and how it compares to the knowledge that environmentalists and industry professionals have. It is also important to review scientific literature in order to assess the validity of acquired knowledge. To accomplish this, I conducted a literature review as well as in-person and online surveys. My findings show that professionals within the environmental and fisheries industry generally have more knowledge regarding salmon species within the Lake Washington Watershed, however, there are still a number of misconceptions that became apparent within my research. I argue that educational programs regarding local salmon species are vital and should be funding priorities for organizations such as the one I interned with, the Governor’s Salmon Recovery Office.