Department of Fish and Game

Fisheries Resources and Species Management

Resources Overview | Coho: Home , Life History , Range , Important Terms , Recovery Strategy , Status Review Report

Coho Salmon Recovery Implementation

The causes for the decline of coho salmon are many and complex. In general, coho salmon require adequate stream flows, cold water, streamside shade, instream and off-stream shelter and pools, and access to spawning gravels with a low fine sediment component.

It is necessary to both protect the best remaining habitat and improve degraded habitat, especially in areas where coho salmon are still present to recover coho salmon. Each of the recommendations addresses these two aspects of coho salmon recovery. On the whole, the strategy for recovery of coho salmon involves several approaches:

  • Interim and long-term actions
  • Equitable apportionment of both public and private support and action
  • Equitable apportionment of regulatory and non-regulatory obligations
  • Scientifically, technologically, and economically reasonable means
  • Best available scientific data
  • Financial investments
  • Long-term commitment and efforts of individuals, communities, and stakeholder groups in coho salmon watersheds.

Image of culvert with text reading, Replacing road culverts imporves upstream access for spawning adult coho. Image of stream with text reading, large wood in streams provides good habitat for juvenile coho.

Image of tree stump in stream with text reading, Underwater snags provide good cover for juvenile coho. Image of pond with text reading, Off-channel ponds can provide good winter habitat for juvenile coho.

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