The Salish Sea is a complex ecosystem located in the Pacific Northwest region of North America, stretching from the north end of the Strait of Georgia in British Columbia to the south end of Puget Sound in Washington State.

Map via Explore the Salish Sea

It is a unique bioregion characterized by its rich biodiversity, stunning natural beauty, and cultural significance to several Indigenous peoples who have lived in the region for thousands of years.  The name was choosen to honor the Coast Salish people.

The Salish Sea is home to a wide variety of species, including Chinook salmon, orca whales, sea otters, and humpback whales, which provide valuable ecological services such as pollination, carbon storage, and nutrient cycling. The area is also known for its diverse bird species, with over 200 species recorded in the region.

Despite its ecological and cultural importance, the Salish Sea is facing a number of environmental threats, including pollution, climate change, and overfishing. One of the most significant threats to the Salish Sea is the decline in the Chinook salmon population, which has resulted in decreased food availability for predator species, including the endangered southern resident orca whales.

Efforts to protect and conserve the Salish Sea are ongoing, with numerous organizations working to improve water quality, reduce pollutants, and restore critical habitats. Additionally, Indigenous communities in the region are playing a crucial role in conservation efforts, drawing on their deep knowledge and understanding of the Salish Sea ecosystem to develop sustainable practices that benefit both people and the environment.

The Salish Sea is a vital ecological and cultural treasure that with the right care can flourish for generations.