Massive Salmon Die-Off in Klamath River Linked to Gas Bubble Disease
The removal of dams on the Klamath River, aimed at restoring natural ecosystems, has led to the unexpected death of over 800,000 Chinook salmon due to gas bubble disease.
- Over 800,000 Chinook salmon released into the Klamath River died from gas bubble disease, caused by extreme changes in water pressure.
- The salmon fry were part of a restoration effort following the largest dam removal project in US history, aimed at reconnecting the river's ecosystems.
- Officials attribute the high mortality rate to the fish passing through a tunnel at the base of the Iron Gate Dam, which is scheduled for demolition.
- The California Department of Fish and Wildlife plans to release more fish downstream of the tunnel to avoid further incidents.
- The incident has sparked concerns over the impact of dam removal on salmon populations, despite long-term benefits for the river's ecosystem.