The Westerly News
Sept. 29, 2004
Upper Kennedy Sockeye salmon returns are only a third of what was expected to return, based on the year 2000 run, said Richard Smith from the Thornton Creek Enhancement Society.
In the year 2000 there were 37,000 Sockeye and now, four years later, there are 12,000. Peak season for salmon spawning is the month of September.
"Every four years there is a good return. [This] is a big year normally," said Smith. "Considering the returns in 2000, we thought we'd have a bigger year than we are having."
Smith attributes this to the warm weather and low river water in the year 2000. The river water is higher this year, says Smith, which could enhance the survival rate of the salmon.
"The stocks may rebound again in 2008 ...Everything depends on water levels."
Sockeye salmon returns
are normal elsewhere in the region, stated Smith.
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