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Fish and aquatic life

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Oregon Sea Grant

The Oregon Sea Grant serves the state, region and nation through an integrated program of research, outreach, and education that helps people understand, rationally use and conserve marine and coastal resources.

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Latest Resources

Oregon Climate Assessment Coastal Hazards

This chapter of the OCA report looks at recent assessments and analyses that document increasing rates of sea-level rise and erosion along Oregon’s coasts, and measures are being implemented or considered to adapt to these changes.

Aug 2023 | OSU Sea Grant Publication Peer reviewed (Gray level)

Incorporating social science and human dimensions into reintroducing sea otters on the West Coast

This report provides scientific guidance for incorporating social science and human dimensions into the consideration of potential sea otter reintroductions.

Aug 2023 | OSU Sea Grant Publication Peer reviewed (Gray level)

2022 Oregon Coast STEM Hub e-Blasts

This is a compilation of monthly newsletters created in 2022 by the Oregon Coast STEM Hub for educators, industry partners and students on the Oregon Coast.

Aug 2023 | OSU Sea Grant Publication Peer reviewed (Gray level)

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Field Guide to Common Fish of the Willamette Valley Floodplain

By Josh E. Williams Guillermo R. Giannico and Brad Withrow-Robinson

This book contains descriptions of native and non-native fish found in the Willamette River Basin's seasonal watercourses, with over a hundred photos to aid in identification.

It also offers a succinct explanation of the Willamette River Basin's aquatic ecosystems and seasonal watercourses, and instructions for using the field guide and how to report a sighting.

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Latest News

Releasing non-native fish to control mosquitoes is often ineffective and harmful to environment

"Do-it-yourself” solutions aren’t effective for mosquito control, and they aren’t good for the environment.

Chris Branam | Jul 29, 2022 | News story

Genetic analysis reveals differences in mate choice between wild and hatchery coho salmon

A new study of the genetic profiles of wild and hatchery coho salmon demonstrates important distinctions in how the two types of fish form mating pairs.  

Oct 6, 2021 | News story

Three years of monitoring of Oregon’s gray whales shows changes in health

Three years of “health check-ups” on Oregon’s summer resident gray whales shows a compelling relationship between whales’ overall body condition and changing ocean conditions that likely limited availability of prey for the mammals, a new study from Oregon State University indicates.

Apr 27, 2020 | News story

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Management Resources

Resilience and Connectivity in the Klamath River Basin

This story map on the restoration work in the Klamath River Basin includes information about the planned removal of four hydropower dams and the effect this work may have on water quality, salmon restoration, and the people in the region.

Feb 2022 | OSU Sea Grant Publication Peer reviewed (Gray level)

Tide Gates: Operation, Fish Passage and Recommendations for Their Upgrade or Removal

This document is intended for policymakers so they can make informed decisions about upgrading or removing tide gates in an effort to improve conditions for Oregon’s native migratory fish and other animals and plants that inhabit estuaries.

May 2020 | OSU Sea Grant Publication Peer reviewed (Gray level)

Barriers and Needs for Sustainable Marine Aquaculture Developement in Oregon

This report summarizes the findings of a survey of individuals working in and around the aquaculture industry to help determine barriers to expanding and current needs.

Oct 2021 | OSU Sea Grant Publication Peer reviewed (Gray level)

More aquatic life resources

  • Freshwater Illustrated: Freshwater Illustrated is a Corvallis, Oregon-based nonprofit educational organization with a focus on raising the visibility and the conservation cause of freshwater ecosystems. They create immersive visual stories that introduce viewers to the beauty, wonder, and value of freshwater ecosystems. They produce short format films for web and feature films for broadcast and education. Take a look at their film portfolio.
  • Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife: Our mission is to protect and enhance Oregon's fish and wildlife and their habitats for use and enjoyment by present and future generations
  • Oregon Conservation Partnership: The Oregon Conservation Partnership is committed to protecting and enhancing Oregon’s natural beauty and conservation values by promoting, supporting, and advocating for voluntary conservation throughout Oregon.

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Meet Our Experts

Angee Doerr
Marine Fisheries Educator
Guillermo Giannico
Guillermo Giannico
Fisheries Specialist
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Ask Extension

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Ask Extension is a way for you to get answers from the Oregon State University Extension Service. We have experts in family and health, community development, food and agriculture, coastal issues, forestry, programs for young people, and gardening.

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How can I make a salamander habitat?

Q: We have a small backyard pond, and salamanders have moved in. I’m looking for info on how to take care of their pond so they can thrive. Can I add water from my garden hose? Is there a type of food that I can provide for them?

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