The Atlantic salmon populations in England and Wales have reached alarming lows, with 90 percent of wild river salmon in England classified as “at risk” or “probably at risk” according to the latest Atlantic Salmon Stock Assessment for 2024. This decline has led to concerns about the sustainability of salmon populations in the region.
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) recently changed the status of Atlantic salmon from “least concern” to “endangered” in Great Britain, further highlighting the severity of the situation. Reasons for the decline in salmon populations include agricultural practices, bycatch during migration, and the environmental impact of maize production.
Despite efforts to mitigate the decline through salmon farming, challenges such as disease outbreaks and genetic disruption from escaped farm salmon persist. Climate change is also exacerbating the situation, with rising water temperatures affecting salmon’s ability to find food and survive.
While experts recommend consuming wild salmon for lower PCB levels, the larger issue at hand is advocating for sustainable practices to protect salmon populations. Collaborations with organizations like the Missing Salmon Alliance aim to increase awareness and push for stricter regulations to preserve these iconic fish.