This project supports management plans for ESA-listed chinook salmon that (1) protect the genetic integrity ofnatural populations, and (2) maintain sport fisheries by conducting research and…

The State of Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) received a $564,553 Formula Grant from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) under the Sport Fish Restoration program (CFDA 15.605) for the period October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026. This award supports management plans for Endangered Species Act (ESA)-listed Chinook salmon populations in the Willamette and Sandy Basins, with dual objectives to protect the genetic integrity of natural populations and maintain sport fisheries through research and monitoring activities.

The project deliverables include conducting comprehensive biological research and population monitoring for Chinook salmon in both basins, as well as collecting biological data on winter steelhead in the upper Willamette Basin to inform ESA-listed species management decisions. ODFW will coordinate these activities closely with other agency projects and federal management partners to plan and execute conservation and recovery efforts across both river basins. The funding supports core Sport Fish Restoration program objectives of restoring, conserving, and managing sport fish populations while providing data essential to species recovery planning.

This project supports management plans for ESA-listed chinook salmon that (1) protect the genetic integrity ofnatural populations, and (2) maintain sport fisheries by conducting research and monitoring for chinook salmonpopulations in the willamette and sandy basins. In addition, the project will collect biological data on wintersteelhead in the upper willamette basin to inform management of this ESA listed species. We work closely withother odfw projects and federal management agencies to plan conservation and recovery efforts in these basins.