The huge reservoirs created by the dams were confusing to the salmon as they migrated. When salmon migrate, they need to keep at a fast pace in the direction they are going in. The fish ladders were very difficult for the salmon and sometimes the fish were sucked to their deaths by the power of the turbines. In the last 20 years, man has made a choice to try to save the salmon instead of destroying them. Dredge mining has been outlawed, road building codes are tighter.
Groups of people work to restore the natural habitat of the salmon.
Pollutants are no longer carelessly dumped into the river. Commercial and sports fishing has been restricted. We have made great strides in saving our salmon,but we must do more. I am helping the salmon in their battle for survival. The actions of the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife effect the salmon during their whole life cycle.