This fall, the Napa River came alive with an awe-inspiring phenomenon: the seasonal return of Chinook salmon. These fish, known for their incredible resilience and vital ecological role, embarked on an epic journey through our watershed, signaling the change of seasons and reminding us of the Napa River’s unique importance. (The Napa River itself, a central lifeline of our watershed, supports not only these remarkable salmon but also a variety of other species that depend on its clean, flowing waters for survival.)
Chinook salmon lead remarkable lives. After spending 2-5 years growing in the ocean, they make their way into the bay, waiting for the first fall rains to cue their migration upstream. Once in the river, they waste no time—they spawn almost immediately, ensuring the next generation’s survival before completing their lifecycle. By late winter, their eggs hatch, and juvenile salmon spend a brief time in the river before heading out to sea, continuing this age-old cycle.
Image Credit: Jenny McIllvain
At Napa RCD, we’ve had an exciting time monitoring this year’s spawning run. From our kayaks, our surveys note the location of live fish, carcasses and redds (gravel nests), which provide valuable information about Chinook activity and the health of our watershed annually. This year, we observed 97 live fish, 3 carcasses, and 157 redds—positive signs for our local waterways. While surveys are a mix of science and art—depending on river conditions, weather, and even fish behavior—one thing is clear: these fish reflect the resilience of our ecosystem.
Image Credit: Andrew Lincoln
And their story doesn’t stop at the riverbank. Chinook salmon are nature’s delivery system for ocean nutrients. When they complete their life cycle, their bodies nourish the river’s food web, feeding everything from insects to riparian plants. This process connects the ocean to the watershed in a way that strengthens the entire ecosystem. It’s a great reminder of how interconnected we all are.
This year, we’re thrilled to see the community’s growing interest in our local salmon. Your support helps Napa RCD continue this vital work, from monitoring these incredible fish to restoring their habitats. By donating through the Napa Valley Give!Guide, you’re directly contributing to the resilience of our watershed and ensuring the Chinook’s story is one we can celebrate for years to come.
Why Your Support Matters:
This essential work would not be possible without the support of our community. The Napa Valley Give!Guide is your opportunity to support meaningful change in Napa County. By giving to Napa RCD, you’re investing in local programs that safeguard our environment, educate future stewards, and strengthen the connection between people and the land.
The campaign is open from now until December 31, 2024—every donation, no matter the size, makes a real impact. Visit the Napa Valley Give!Guide and take action today.
A Gift for Every Donation
The Monkey Flower Group will gift a small floral bouquet to every donor who makes a donation to Napa RCD through the Give!Guide. Donors who give $50 or more will receive five small flower arrangements.