This program focuses on engaging BIPOC communities in defining salmon recovery efforts and incorporating their voices into conservation strategies. In 2024, the goal was to build organizational capacity through training, enhance community involvement via culturally relevant activities, and host inclusive events like salmon habitat tours and educational activities. Key objectives include raising awareness about salmon recovery, gathering community input, and fostering collaboration between stakeholders. The project seeks to empower communities to take an active role in environmental stewardship while advancing equity in conservation efforts. This program is the first phase of a plan to create an established program for salmon recovery efforts at ECOSS.
The Community-Defined Salmon Recovery Engagement program marked the first time ECOSS has undertaken programming specifically designed to engage BIPOC communities about salmon recovery. This effort combined community outreach with a strong capacity-building component for staff, equipping them with the foundational knowledge needed to effectively support future phases of the project. The program’s impacts include fostering environmental stewardship through culturally relevant activities, empowering participants with accessible education, and creating pathways for collaboration. We are particularly proud of building internal capacity while establishing a unique and inclusive model for future conservation efforts.
This program is supported by The Cedar-Sammamish Watershed or Water Resource Inventory Area- Salmon Recovery Council (WRIA) 8, Mountains to Sound Greenway Trust, Seattle Aquarium, and Mid Sound Fisheries.