Salmon Surge: Dams Down, River Roars Back to Life

The recent demolition of four dams on the Klamath River has led to a remarkable resurgence of salmon populations. Approximately 10 months after the last dam's removal, Chinook salmon have successfully navigated fish ladders and returned to upper river reaches and Upper Klamath Lake. This return, occurring much faster than anticipated by biologists, underscores nature's inherent ability to recover and thrive when impediments are removed.

This event challenges prevailing narratives that often emphasize ecological fragility and the inevitability of species extinction. While some species require extensive conservation efforts, the Klamath salmon's return illustrates that many ecosystems and species can rebound with relatively simple interventions. The recovery of numerous species, from bison to bald eagles, serves as a testament to nature's vitality.