Since the commencement of the fall chum salmon season in mid-July, Fisheries and Oceans Canada reports that approximately one million salmon have migrated into the Yukon River from the Bering Sea. Despite this surge, experts caution that it does not necessarily indicate a positive trend in the population of this specific species.
In 2020, there was a concerning decrease in chum salmon numbers, according to researchers. Sebastian Jones, a wildlife analyst at the Yukon Conservation Society, expressed his unease, stating that the fluctuation in numbers is puzzling as the cause remains unknown, highlighting the limited understanding and control over these ecosystems.
Canadian-origin salmon constitute around 12% of the returning fish, a figure lower than the typical range of 20-30%. However, Jones noted that this year’s numbers are an improvement compared to recent years, with an expected 100,000 chum salmon crossing into Canada, a significant increase from the 25,000 recorded last year.
Despite the progress, Jones emphasized that the current numbers are still below the desired levels of 150,000 to 250,000 chum salmon entering the Yukon. Stephanie Peacock from the Pacific Salmon Foundation mentioned that chum salmon, along with chinook salmon, are crucial for the Yukon River ecosystem, particularly as a vital nutrient source later in the fall.
Both chum and chinook salmon populations have experienced declines over time, with the situation for chum salmon being more alarming due to a relatively rapid decrease. Researchers are investigating the Bering Sea, where these salmon originate, noting changes such as rising water temperatures and increased industrial trawl fishing, which have unknown effects on the ecosystem.
While Peacock remains cautiously optimistic about the current situation, she stresses the importance of acknowledging the long-term decline and the ongoing concerns for Yukon chum salmon.