2024 Surveys Show Record Number of Salmon in Shell Creek

The Edmonds Stream Team's annual salmon surveys in December 2024 revealed a record number of chum salmon spawners in Shell Creek, with counts exceeding previous years since monitoring began in 2017. On November 10, a one-day count surpassed the total counts from the last three years, highlighting a successful spawning season. Volunteers from local high schools played a crucial role in the surveys, estimating over 300 salmon returned to Shell Creek and 200 to Lunds Gulch Creek. Despite these positive figures, the team found troubling signs of pre-spawn mortality, suggesting that toxic pollutants and predators are threatening salmon populations. Observations indicated that some salmon displayed erratic behavior due to harmful compounds, specifically a compound in tire dust, raising alarms about water quality in the streams.

The Stream Team continues to work with local property owners and agencies to address habitat issues and ensure successful salmon migrations. Community involvement has been vital, with over 250 visitors reporting salmon sightings and engaging in conservation efforts. Final reports, including additional data and photos, are expected to be available by late January.