Nutrient Enrichment (Carcass Placement)

 

Placement of salmon carcasses and the resulting decomposition of these carcasses elevates the nutrients in the creek to levels that sustain macroinvertebrates and ultimately the salmon fry and pars that feed off them.

 

The carcasses also provide nutrients that aid in the health of the vegetation and trees along the stream and for eagles, raccoons, and other wildlife. Yet another benefit of the nutrients caused by carcass placement is the algae growth in the stream. Healthy algae provide food for insects and other creatures in the food chain to the young salmon. Juvenile salmon will feed on the carcasses of the returning spawning salmon as well.

 

Carcass placement in Puget Creek began in 1999, when the Puyallup Tribal Fisheries put in 50 salmon carcasses. In 2000, 2001, and 2002, PCRS placed more carcasses in the creek. Since 2003, carcasses have been placed in the stream twice a year, in October and December. This is a project that will continue until salmon come back in large enough numbers that it is deemed unnecessary to continue.

 

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