Reefnet Revival: A Path Forward for People, Salmon, and Orcas
Over the past few weeks, we’ve been watching The Last Reefnetter series on Cascade PBS with deep reflection and a growing sense of urgency. The series brings renewed attention to reefnet fishing, not just as a historic method, but as a viable and sustainable approach that could help restore balance to the Salish Sea.
At the Salish Center, we’re focused on creating broader access to reefnetting, especially for tribal communities whose rights to this practice were taken from them for generations. We’re also engaged in ongoing conversations around truth and reconciliation. These two efforts are not in conflict. They can move forward together, built on mutual respect, practical solutions, and the understanding that we are quickly running out of time. The endangered Southern Resident Orcas could be gone in just over a decade if we don’t act.
Reefnetting is not a thing of the past. It is a living, effective answer to a growing crisis. We’re working to support its revival through gear-building, education, advocacy, and partnerships with those who want to return to the water and carry this tradition forward.
Here’s how you can help:
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Watch and share The Last Reefnetter on Cascade PBS
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Advocate for policies that protect reefnet fishing and tribal access
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Donate to help fund reefnet gear, habitat restoration, and youth education
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Visit salishcenter.org to learn more and help spread the word
There is still time to protect salmon, orcas, and the communities connected to these waters for thousands of years. But we cannot wait. The path forward is clear. Let’s walk it together.
Image Credit: Lummi fishing with a reef net in the 1930s. Image courtesy of University of Washington Libraries, Special Collections, Eugene H. Field, photographer, SOC1171.
