A truck crash has spilled 102,000 live salmon into wrong Oregon River instead of the intended Imnaha River.
The young Chinook salmon were being transported from Lookingglass Hatchery to the Imnaha River, where they’re considered threatened.
The driver lost control on a tight turn, causing the tanker to roll down an embankment. Some fish died, while thousands ended up in the creek.
About 25,000 salmon smolts died, and diesel fuel spilled, but it was quickly contained.
Local authorities and tribes helped collect the dead fish and scan their transponders.
The accident represents a loss of 20% of the intended release for the Imnaha River, impacting future salmon returns.
However, the unexpected boost in Lookingglass Creek could lead to additional adult salmon returning there in the future.
Despite the setback, officials believe it won’t affect future fish collection or production goals.
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