#13 - Wild Fish and Old Growth

In this episode, I interview Conrad Gowell with the Wild Fish Conservancy. Based in Washington, his organization uses science and law to protect wild fish and ecosystems. Conrad dives into the issues around fishery policies lagging behind scientific knowledge, particularly with endangered species like Chinook salmon. He highlights the challenges with mixed stock fisheries in Alaska and potential detrimental effects on fish populations. He also explores the impact of hatcheries, debates around the ESA listings, and the importance of old growth forests for biodiversity. He emphasizes systemic change and the balance between preserving ecosystems and sustainable fishing practices. As a river snorkeler, he shares personal reflections on the underwater world and the significance of public lands for biodiversity and cultural practices.

https://wildfishconservancy.org/

00:00 Introduction and Background

00:31 Wild Fish Conservancy's Mission

00:56 Challenges in Salmon Recovery

01:34 Impact of Alaskan Fisheries

03:14 Sustainable Fishing Practices

06:10 Hatcheries and Their Effects

07:02 Climate Change and Fish Populations

09:12 Steelhead and Salmon in the Pacific Northwest

23:16 Old Growth Forests and Ecosystem Interconnections

33:02 River Snorkeling Adventures

42:45 Public Lands and Conservation Legacy

46:24 Conclusion and Final Thoughts