5th Annual Salmon Symposium in Mat-Su

The Mat-Su Basin Salmon Habitat Partnership is hosting the fifth annual Science and Conservation Symposium on Nov. 7 & 8 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Central Mat-Su Public Safety Building at 101 W. Swanson Ave in Wasilla.

The keynote speaker this year is Dr. Robert Lackey, Professor of Fisheries Science and Political Science at Oregon State University.  Dr. Lackey co-edited the anthology “Salmon 2100,” which includes diverse authors exploring the question "What is it going to take to have wild salmon populations in 2100?”

This year the agenda will include more than 25 presenters, posters and discussions groups covering topics such as fish passage, salmon distribution, habitat restoration, stormwater management, and water quality.  

Concerns are mounting with MAT-SU salmon fisheries as sportfishing closures continue, escapement goals are not achieved and more salmon stocks are being designated as "stocks of concern" by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game.

"Of the 12 salmon stocks designated statewide as "stocks of concern", 7 are in the Mat-Su," according to Larry Engel, Matanuska- Susitna Borough Fish and Wildlife Commissioner.

The symposium started in 2008 as a forum to share information on conservation and research projects related to MAT-SU Basin watersheds, salmon, and their habitat. 

Partnership organizations sponsoring the event include the Matanuska-Susitna Borough, Nature Conservancy, US Fish and Wildlife Service, US Geological Survey, Conoco Phillips Alaska, Inc., Chickaloon Village Traditional Council, Great Land Trust and the Alaska Department of Fish and Game

The symposium is free and open to the public.