According to Fisheries and Oceans Canada, approximately one million chum salmon have migrated into the Yukon River from the Bering Sea since the fall season commenced in mid-July. Despite this surge, experts caution that the rise in numbers does not necessarily indicate a positive trend for this particular salmon species.
In 2020, there was a significant decline in chum salmon numbers, which raised concerns among researchers. Sebastian Jones, a wildlife analyst at the Yukon Conservation Society, expressed unease over the lack of understanding regarding the fluctuations in salmon populations.
The proportion of Canadian-origin salmon among the returning fish is currently around 12%, lower than the typical range of 20-30%. However, Jones noted that this year’s numbers, although still relatively low, show improvement compared to recent years.
Last year saw 25,000 chum salmon crossing into Canada, whereas this year, experts are hopeful for a total of 100,000 fish making the journey. Jones emphasized that the ideal range for chum salmon entering the Yukon River is between 150,000 and 250,000 fish.
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Cautiously optimistic
Stephanie Peacock, a scientist at the Pacific Salmon Foundation, highlighted the significance of chum salmon as one of the two salmon species that migrate to the Canadian side of the Yukon River, alongside chinook salmon.
Peacock noted that chum salmon typically migrate later than chinook salmon, providing crucial nutrients later in the fall season. Over time, both salmon species have experienced declines in their populations.
Peacock emphasized the gradual decrease in chinook salmon numbers since the 1990s and expressed more concern over the relatively rapid decline in chum salmon populations.
Researchers are focusing on the Bering Sea, where the Yukon River meets the ocean and where the salmon begin their upstream journey. Changes in this enclosed ecosystem, such as rising water temperatures and increased industrial trawl fishing, have raised concerns about their impact on the salmon population.
While acknowledging positive signs, Peacock advised against complacency, emphasizing the need to address the long-term decline in Yukon chum salmon numbers.