Think Out Loud

Umatilla tribes see lower fish returns than last year

By Rolando Hernandez (OPB)
Aug. 20, 2026 3:57 p.m.

Broadcast: Thursday, Aug. 20

The Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation have seen lower fish returns this year. According to Jerimiah Bonifer, the program manager for the tribe’s fisheries program, there are a number of factors that could be influencing this, including ocean conditions and drought.

At the same time, the tribe has recently completed the Coonskin Creek Fish Passage Project, making it easier for fish to pass through. Bonifer joins us to discuss the low fish yields and more.

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