The Future of Salmon
Salmon are among Washington’s most important natural resources. Beyond supporting the state’s food systems, economy, and heritage, they are a keystone species with a vital role in sustaining ecosystems and wildlife throughout the Pacific Northwest, and are of vital cultural and subsistence importance to Tribal nations.
23,000 jobs
in commercial fishing are supported by salmon in Washington, adding $14 million annually to the economy
138 species
rely on salmon as a source of food across the state and Pacific Northwest
$1.5 billion
in estimated economic activity is generated by the state’s recreational salmon fisheries
80% of the catch
of Washington’s salmon comes from over 100 hatcheries across the state
WSU research strengthens sustainable aquaculture and develops innovative solutions to emerging environmental challenges facing salmon.
Innovation and Sustainability
Salmon are a critical food source for endangered killer whales, and transport marine-derived nutrients into rivers, forests, and watersheds that support hundreds of species. WSU’s research into biology-centric management practices, biotechnology, and resilience seeks to strengthen both wild salmon ecosystems and sustainable aquaculture.
Community and Economic Impact
WSU collaborates with conservation partners, industry, Tribes, and government agencies to translate science into practical solutions. Salmon support nearly 23,000 commercial fishing jobs, while recreational salmon fisheries generate an estimated $1.5 billion in economic activity. Advancing both sustainable aquaculture and wild salmon conservation means supporting communities as well as wildlife across Washington.
Conservation and Environmental Leadership
Researchers are developing advanced tools for salmon conservation while addressing threats to aquatic ecosystems. One landmark discovery identified a chemical responsible for coho salmon mortality, solving a decades-long scientific mystery and informing new strategies for protecting salmon.
Leaders in Sustainable Aquaculture and Aquatic Health
WSU is a globally recognized leader in aquatic animal health and resilience, as well as sustainable aquaculture that preserves ecosystems. Across our six campuses, eleven colleges, and 39 extension offices that span the state, researchers study salmon and other species through multidisciplinary perspectives: genetics, infectious disease and pathology, environmental toxicology, physiology, water quality, hydrology, and more. WSU researchers are innovating new approaches and applying cutting-edge technology, including AI and gene editing, to tackle the complex challenges that face our aquatic natural resources as well as the communities and industries that rely on them.
$28+ million
in funding for aquaculture research at WSU
since 2016
39 researchers
at Washington State University with expertise relevant to aquaculture
For more information:
Continue exploring examples of WSU research:
The Sustainable Future of Flight
Learn more.
Resilient Livestock Program
Learn more.
Healthy Farming, Healthy Food
Learn more.
Honey Bee + Pollinators Program
Learn more.
Resilient Agriculture
Learn more.
The Future of Salmon
Learn more.
