(Yakutat) – In order to reduce mortality of Situk River sockeye salmon, the retention of sockeye salmon is prohibited in the Situk River drainage beginning at 12:01 a.m. Sunday, July 1, 2018.

The Situk River drainage is managed for a biological escapement goal (BEG) of 30,000 to 70,000 sockeye salmon. As of June 28, 2018, 1,678 sockeye salmon have been counted through the Situk River weir. Average run timing data for sockeye salmon on the Situk River indicates that approximately 23% of the run should be in the river by June 28. Given the low numbers of sockeye salmon returning to the Situk River the BEG is not expected to be achieved. This action is warranted to conserve Situk River sockeye salmon.

ADF&G staff will continue to closely monitor sockeye salmon returns and take additional management actions as necessary.

For further information please contact Yakutat Area Management Biologist, Matt Catterson at (907) 784-3222.

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