Chinook salmon are returning to the Klamath River in Oregon and California. Dams blocked their way for about 100 years. The number of salmon fell by about 90%. In 2024, workers removed four dams.
Soon after, 7,742 salmon swam past the old dam sites. More than 13,000 did this in 2025. The fish returned to 214 miles of river and 88% of their old home.
Scientists used an underwater camera. It uses sound to show fish in muddy water. Their quick return surprised scientists. But their numbers still need to grow. Their young need to grow up and have young, too. They also need better river conditions, cleaner water, and easier ways to swim through the river.
