Issaquahs Autumn Tradition Welcoming the Salmon Home

September 22 marks the autumnal equinox, but for Issaquah residents, the return of spawning salmon signifies the start of fall. Mark Clemens, Executive Director of Friends of Issaquah Salmon Hatchery, expressed excitement over the first salmon sighting, a Chinook named Piper. Salmon are crucial to the ecosystem, serving as a food source for various species and holding cultural importance for the Snoqualmie Tribe. Rainfall serves as an environmental trigger, signaling the salmon's return and helping them navigate their migration by breaking surface tension in the water. This year’s salmon run is slightly late due to low creek water flow, but rain is expected to improve conditions for the fish.

Females typically return first, followed closely by males, following a natural bell curve pattern. Community members can monitor the salmon return through live feeds on FISH’s Facebook page and are encouraged to visit the hatchery for tours and stewardship opportunities. The event underscores the importance of salmon in the region and the celebration of their remarkable journey back home.