UW Bothell students’ immersive ‘schooling’ searches for struggling kokanee salmon

UW Bothell students and alumni are helping track the return of Lake Sammamish kokanee salmon, a small native fish population that was once thought to be nearly extinct.

On a cold April night, student researchers worked alongside Dr. Jeff Jensen in Jacobs Creek, setting traps and monitoring the waters for kokanee fry. After winter flooding raised concerns about the fish’s survival, the team found signs of hope: several young kokanee were logged and measured.

The work highlights the importance of local conservation, student research and community awareness. Many people may not realize that kokanee salmon still navigate local streams, or that individual populations remain at risk.

Visit Research & Creative Projects for Undergrads to learn more about UW Bothell student research and conservation efforts.