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Salmon are an important part of Pacific Northwest culture. The Hanford Reach fall Chinook - classified as the upriver bright population - have been monitored since 1948. Salmon redds, or nests, are counted annually from mid-August through October. Salmon numbers in the Hanford Reach have steadily increased since 1948 though with numbers fluctuate dramatically during the years following droughts (fewer salmon hatch successfully in a drought year, so there are fewer who can return on the five to seven year cycle). The Hanford Reach remains the most important natural spawning area for fall Chinook salmon in the main-stem Columbia River.
Though contamination does enter the river from Hanford groundwater, the Columbia River meets all Washington State designations for a 'class A water body' that can support all needs.
Research to date shows no negative impact to salmon from chromium concentrations in the river gravels. Interestingly, juvenile salmon move away from areas where there is chromium in the water.
While there is considered to be no current threat to humans from consuming salmon or other fish caught in the vicinity of Hanford, Native American populations are concerned that because they eat considerably more fish, they may suffer negative health affects. The Washington State Department of Health Radiation Protection Division monitors and regulates radiation and has produced information on the fishery within the Columbia downstream of Hanford.
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