Highlight: Demonstrating exceptional leadership, commitment and innovation while conducting the Coastal Coho Assessment

 

The individuals being honored demonstrated exceptional perseverance and ingenuity while working on the Coastal Coho Assessment, the in-depth evaluation of the biological status of coastal coho and actions under the Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds to rebuild and conserve Oregon coho populations.

A primary factor driving initial implementation of the Oregon Plan was the steep decline of coastal coho during the early to mid-1990s. The National Marine Fisheries Service (NOAA Fisheries) listed the Oregon coastal coho as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act in 1998 and has been working with the state of Oregon since then to address coho conservation and recovery. NOAA will make a final decision on listing coho in summer 2005.

 

The five honorees were instrumental in conducting the multi-agency Coastal Coho Assessment, which will provide valuable information for NOAA Fisheries’ listing decision and serve as the basis for a conservation and recovery plan for coastal coho. The extensive data gathering and analysis tasks included determining the biological viability of coastal coho; identifying risk factors that contributed to past decline or threatened future viability of coho; and evaluating the status and trends of management programs, restoration work, habitat and other conditions that impact coho.

The honorees evidenced their commitment to completing the Coastal Coho Assessment in time for NOAA Fisheries’ review by working countless hours beyond their normal schedules, including many nights and weekends. Their pioneering approach to the Assessment demonstrated outstanding technical abilities, innovation and dedication to preserving and protecting Oregon’s natural resources. Their exceptional efforts will not only further conservation and recovery of Oregon coastal coho, but will also lead to improved implementation of the Oregon Plan to benefit fish and wildlife in watersheds throughout the state.