How Salmon Recovery Happens

We work cooperatively with landowners, agencies, tribes, businesses, partner organizations, students, schools and community volunteers to restore sustainable wild salmon runs in Whatcom County.

We use heavy equipment: In some cases, NSEA is like a construction company. We work with big machinery (excavators, cranes, dump trucks and even helicopters) to rebuild functionality into a stream or river that is in some way not working well for migratory fish like Pacific salmon and Steelhead. 

We embrace a community-based model: In practice, being community-based means providing an accessible way for people to participate and make a meaningful difference. Our Saturday morning Community Work Parties are where many people get their start with us. 

Say yes more than no: Restoration science is sophisticated. But it is also young enough that we are still learning. If someone has an idea and the passion, we strive to find a way to support it.  

We develop restoration leaders: Speaking of ideas and passion, interns (over 40 placements per year) provide tremendous inspiration and hundreds of hours of talented work (teaching, monitoring, organizing and leading) each year toward NSEA's mission. 

We are positive and make it fun: There is nothing funny about declining salmon runs or poor water quality. In fact, the truth can be downright worrisome. However, you won't find NSEA's staff getting stuck or complaining about the challenge. Instead, we believe it's important to celebrate every success (even the small ones) remain positive, and keep taking steps forward.