Fish

UCUT Fish Restoration Projects: Reintroducing Salmon, Protecting Native Species, and Revitalizing Columbia River Fisheries

Restoring Native Fish Populations and Revitalizing River Ecosystems Through Tribal-Led Projects in the Upper Columbia Basin

The Upper Columbia United Tribes (UCUT) are dedicated to restoring native fish populations and reconnecting aquatic ecosystems throughout the Columbia River Basin. Tribal efforts focus on fish passage, habitat improvement, and reintroduction of culturally significant species such as salmon, steelhead, and white sturgeon. These initiatives are vital to tribal lifeways, food sovereignty, and long-term ecological health.

Goals and Outcomes

Reintroduce salmon to historical spawning grounds above Grand Coulee and Chief Joseph Dams
Protect and enhance fish habitat across rivers, tributaries, and lakes
Monitor and manage fish populations using science-based and culturally guided methods
Collaborate regionally with tribal, federal, and state partners to restore and protect fisheries
Support tribal food systems and cultural traditions through sustainable fish recovery

View our Fish Projects

Columbia River Treaty

Negotiations have started that will determine the future of our region: the negotiations of the Columbia River Treaty. The Columbia River Treaty was originally ratified between the U.S. and Canada in 1964 to reduce the risk of floods in downstream cities like Portland, Oregon, and to develop hydropower capacity. Tribes and First Nations are advocating a third major criteria be included in …

Kalispel Tribe of Indians – Northern Pike Suppression

Northern Pike are incredibly close to invading the portion of the Columbia River that still contains salmon and steelhead. Pike eat a lot of fish and this will be catastrophic to salmon and steelhead populations in the Columbia River system. The Kalispel Tribe and Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife have spent over a decade studying them and fighting to suppress the source population …

United by Water

UCUT is proud to present our new film, United By Water, that documents the inspiring journey of local tribal communities to Kettle Falls, the fishing site of their ancestors, for the first time in 80 years. Narrated by Sherman Alexie, it is a film about reconnecting with tribal traditions and with the river that once was so integral to their way of life. More about the Film United …

The Value of Natural Capital in the Columbia River Basin

The Columbia River Basin is an abundant watershed, supporting immense forests, the largest salmon runs in the world, and diverse and abundant wildlife. These natural resources benefit our region with sustainable food, jobs, recreation, clean water, and a healthier environment, among many others. Yet, these natural resources have been seriously degraded by dams and other developments in the basin. When assets, whether built or natural, are not managed sustainably, economic loss occurs.

UCUT Video Gallery

A YEAR TO REMEMBER 2022 was a monumental year for UCUT. After years of planning and effort, visions have become realities. This video highlights those projects and success stories and provides insight into the ongoing efforts of the 5 member tribes to restore the fish and wildlife along with the waters and habitats of the Upper Columbia. https://vimeo.com/818231993 Salmon …

Canoe Journey and Gathering at Kettle Falls

On June 17, 2016, the five Upper Columbia United Tribes journeyed in dugout canoes to Kettle Falls, our ancient fishing spot on the Columbia River. After traveling for days, we gathered together in the land of our ancestors for the first time in over 80 years. “Salmon is a sacred resource to our tribes. It is inherent in our beliefs that we are stewards of the river and of salmon…”

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Explore More of Our Work

Want to see what else we’re doing across the Upper Columbia region? Browse all of our ongoing and completed projects.

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Meet the Tribes Behind the Work

Our projects are made possible by the leadership and collaboration of five sovereign tribal nations. Learn more about the Member Tribes that make up UCUT and their connection to this land.

Discover The Tribes

Have a Question or Want to Learn More?

We’re here to connect. Reach out to our team for more information about this project or to explore ways to get involved.

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