Joseph James, chairman of the Yurok Nation, the largest Indigenous tribe in California, says of Blue Creek watershed costing $60 million, “You have to smile a little bit when you realize you’re buying back your own land, right? Yes, it’s a hefty price tag, but it’s also priceless.” Image courtesy of Matt Mais of the Yurok Tribe.

In a big win, Yurok Nation reclaims vital creek and watershed to restore major salmon run

KLAMATH, California — The Pacific Ocean fog hung densely over the narrow mouth of the Klamath River in this coastal rainforest in northern California. Redwood, Douglas fir and alder disappeared into the mist. Seals bobbed nearby, hungry and waiting. An osprey swooped overhead, breakfast clenched in its claws. It was late July, 2024. The salmon … Continue reading In a big win, Yurok Nation reclaims vital creek and watershed to restore major salmon run

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