How differences in snowpack affects our fisheries

The effect of climate change on fisheries

Climate change, as we all know, poses a real threat to fisheries and lands that people love to enjoy, especially outdoor enthusiasts. A variety of the effects of climate change have already been seen. According to the USDA, a severe increase in annual temperatures has already occured in states in the Pacific Northwest, such as Idaho, Oregon, Washington, and Alaska. Alaska, home of famous national parks such as Denali National Park, has seen sharply increased temperatures. In some areas of Alaska, temperatures have risen 6.2 degrees Fahrenheit since 1900. 

So, how does this drastic change affect us? Fisheries, for starters, have been heavily affected by this change in temperature. A temperature rise reduces snowpack, and precipitation that would be snow quickly turns to rain. This mass increase in rain causes severe flooding, and the Washington government estimates that streamflow will increase by 25-34% by 2080. This means severe damage to not only human habitats but also fish habitats. The increase in streamflow eradicates calm water needed for fish to reproduce and survive. 

Small towns such as Ketchum, Idaho, have seen major consequences from climate change. Drastic differences in snowpack year over year have made it almost impossible for the rainbow trout in the region to stabilize their population. Warmer water temperatures in small towns, such as Ketchum, make it even harder for fish to survive in these new, harsh conditions. As a result, these towns have experienced lackluster fishing seasons.

Consequences

Although seemingly minor, the consequences of climate change have had major impacts on these regions. An estimated 4 billion dollars will be lost in the economy due to new climate changes, as ski resorts have seen a snowfall decrease of 40% over the past 40 years. So, not only do these changes affect the world's outdoorsman, but they also affect regular consumers.

So, how can you help? For starters, irrigation plays a massive role in the fluctuation of river flows. For example, in the Wood River Valley of Idaho, the vastly important Big Wood River sections are arid due to irrigation. As seen in the photo below,

As you probably could have guessed, this majority disrupts the habitats of the trout in the region. It is another factor in the poor fishing seasons the area has experienced. You can help stop this damage by installing a rainwater collector in your yard. The rainwater collector can be used to water your plants, which you typically might have used a hose or a sprinkler system to water. Decreasing the amount of irrigated water you use can help contribute to the decline in water /from key waterways such as the Big Wood River.