Anadromous Fish Committee

Chairpersons

Mike Edmondson
Phone: 208-334-2189, x1551
Email: mike.edmondson@osc.idaho.gov

Mike Peterson
Phone: 208-465-8404, x234
Email: mike.peterson@idfg.idaho.gov

Overview

There are fishes native to Idaho that leave their spawning and rearing habitats in our state to grow in the Pacific Ocean, 466 miles downstream of the state line, then return to spawn. These fishes are the purview of the Anadromous Fish Committee. Populations of anadromous fishes in Idaho declined precipitously following the construction of hydroelectric dams in the Snake and Columbia rivers. The effect was disastrous for all anadromous species. Coho salmon were extirpated from the Snake River by 1986. Sockeye salmon almost disappeared and were declared under extreme risk of extinction by authority of the Endangered Species Act in 1991. Chinook salmon were classified as threatened with extinction in 1992. Steelhead trout were also classified as threatened in 1997. The status of lamprey is uncertain but they are apparently in trouble as well. Current fisheries on anadromous fishes are entirely supported by hatchery production. An appreciation of these fishes by the public, as well as detailed technical information for fisheries managers, is required for the conservation of anadromous fishes in today’s society.

Mission

The mission of the Anadromous Fish Committee is to advance knowledge and appreciation of the state's anadromous fish resources and the aquatic habitats upon which they depend; and promote the use of sound science towards conservation and recovery of the fishery resource for its use and enjoyment by all.

Goals

The committee will seek to accomplish the mission through the following goals:

Goal 1: Reprint 5,000 brochures on Idaho’s salmon and steelhead for distribution to the public.
Goal 2: Develop informational placemats and other educational materials.
Goal 3: Consider other ideas for a technical session for the ICAFS membership.

Recent Accomplishments