The key to salmon recovery is by protecting and restoring key habitat throughout the distribution of Nisqually Salmon. From the Nisqually River Delta where the Nisqually River meets the Salish Sea to the Nisqually Community Forest at the base of Mt. Rainier, the Nisqually Indian Tribe Salmon Recovery Program is the lead organization for habitat recovery. The Salmon Recovery Program Lead Entity Coordinator oversees the distribution of state and federal habitat restoration grant funding to partner organizations through the Salmon Recovery Funding Board competitive process. All proposed projects are evaluated based on their strategic importance to salmon recovery.
One of the most important habitats for salmon is the riparian forest. Riparian forests provide many important functions for salmon including prey production and shade which keeps salmon streams cool. The Native Plant Restoration Crew, housed within the Salmon Recovery Program, is a full time crew focused on restoring this critical habitat throughout the watershed. From planting trees to long term monitoring and maintenance, the Native Plant Restoration Crew has restored hundreds of acres of riparian forest.
Ashley Von Essen, Lead Entity Program Coordinator
vonessen.ashley@nisqually-nsn.gov
Emiliano Perez, Restoration Field Crew Supervisor
perez.emiliano@nisually-nsn.gov
Sam Stepetin, Restoration Field Crew Lead
Robert McGee, Restoration Field Crew Technician
Joseph Squally, Restoration Field Crew Technician
Eddie Villegas, Restoration Field Crew Technician
Chase Perez, Restoration Field Crew Technician
Victor James, Restoration Field Crew Technician
Nicole Mounts, Restoration Field Crew Technician
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