Today, 1st June, is International Wild Salmon Day. Here, the FMS CEO, Dr Alan Wells, reflects on the progress we have made and the work still to be done to recover Scotland’s iconic wild salmon populations.
Our wild salmon are woven into the fabric of Scotland — shaping our rivers, our landscapes and our cultural identity. They are a symbol of resilience, travelling thousands of miles before returning home to their native river. But today, that resilience is being tested like never before.
Wild salmon populations are in serious decline. The findings of the UK’s Fourth Climate Change Risk Assessment make sobering reading — the report warns that river flows are likely to be around a third lower in summer than they were 20 years ago and that there is a risk of widespread ecosystem loss by 2050. These impacts — alongside a wide range of human-induced pressures — are reducing the ability of our rivers to support salmon at every stage of their life cycle. Water scarcity, habitat degradation and barriers to migration are no longer distant risks; they are present realities.
Yet there is hope.
International Wild Salmon Day, is a celebration of salmon and a showcase of what’s possible when people come together to support their recovery. Across Scotland, Fisheries Management Scotland and our members and partners are taking concerted action. From restoring river habitats and removing barriers, to supporting work to improve water quality and safeguard flows, we are working to give salmon the best possible chance of survival. It all starts with healthy habitats. The best available science, local knowledge and strong partnerships are at the heart of this effort.
This year, International Wild Salmon Day coincides with the Annual meeting of the North Atlantic Salmon Conservation Organization (NASCO). Accredited NGOs, including FMS, from across the range of wild Atlantic salmon will come together in Scotland to push all parties to deliver on their commitments and take concerned action to address the pressures that our ionic salmon face, including mortality at sea.
International Wild Salmon Day reminds us that recovery is possible — but only if we act together. Governments, communities, industries and individuals all have a significant role to play.
Scotland still has some of the finest salmon rivers in the world. With continued commitment, we can ensure they remain that way — not just for today, but for generations to come.
Visit wildsalmonday.com to find out more and raise the flag for wild salmon.
#WildSalmonDay
