Salmon and logging don't mix

Check out this interesting news video and story about the conflict between logging and salmon habitat in Alaska. The video has much more information than the written article. Both, however, specifically discuss how important it is to have intact forests if we are to also have intact salmon fisheries. It also specifically talks about the trade-off, at least as many see it currently, between logging and fishing jobs. While the story addresses forest restoration opportunities, it unfortunately fails to discuss the jobs that can be created by investing in restoration. Similarly, the story doesn’t specifically talk about roads, though sediment from the very extensive road network in the Tongass is a primary culprit in the past degradation of the salmon fishery. That said, it's a compelling look at the important role of intact forest habitat, specifically old growth habitat, for maintaining and improving salmon runs.

For more information, the Tongass Futures Roundtable is one collaborative group working to identify restoration opportunities, including reclaiming unneeded roads in the Tongass.