Thursday, April 29, 2010

A Love Story

"Fingerlings" 22x23" oil pastel, Kathleen Faulkner

Salmon and trees just seem to go together.  It's been that way since the beginning.  

We all want and need protection from the elements, enough food to eat, clean air,  a respite from the rigors of life.  Trees provide that for salmon.
The forest environment on the banks of rivers and streams is called Riparian vegetation.  This dies and ends up in the streams. It includes dead wood, underbrush.. generally, 'compost' of the forest and, in the fall, dead salmon. It is a food source and oxygen for salmon and other water citizens.
It is the smallest percentage of forest environment in northwest Washington yet has an effect on 80% of the wildlife population.  All the living, dining, nesting, resting and hiding goes on here.

We must protect and speak for all natural communities as they have  no voice.