Orca Conservancy Supports Stronger Stream Buffer Standards in Southern Oregon

The science is clear that removing trees near streams results in warmer stream temperatures. Many streams across the Rogue Basin are already too warm, threatening the health of salmon and other native fish. There are more than 1,500 miles of salmon and steelhead streams in the Rogue Basin. Of these, 317 miles are small and medium streams that should receive increased protection under the new rule.

As NMFS recently acknowledged, “ … [S]outhern [R]esidents spend substantial time in coastal areas of Washington, Oregon and California and utilize salmon returns to these areas.” These coastal waters are recognized as an essential foraging area for this critically endangered population in the winter and spring, and are currently under consideration to be designated as critical habitat for the Southern Resident killer whale.