4/8 Salmonberry, Skagit R dams, Pacific Salmon Initiative, Local News Day, palolo worm, Welcome the Whales, democracy watch.

Salmonberry

 

Salmonberry Rubus spectabilis
Salmonberry is a member of the rose family (Rosaceae) and is quite similar to a raspberry in size and shape; except in contrast, its fruit color is yellow, orange, or red. Salmonberry is endemic to the Pacific Northwest extending north into Alaska and Canada, and southward to Washington, Idaho, Oregon and parts of California, and is found in east Asia (Japan). Mature fruits are tender and sweet, and often used in jams, jellies, and several baked goods. It is often served with smoked salmon. Salmonberry has been a part of the Alaskan indigenous peoples’ diet for thousands of years. (US Forest Service)

Today's top story in Salish Current:  ‘Twelve Daring Grays’ enter the Salish Sea

Seattle reaches $4B deal to keep Skagit River dams, truck salmon
The Seattle City Council approved a landmark $4 billion agreement Tuesday laying out a road map for the city’s next half-century of hydropower on the Skagit River. Isabella Breda reports. (Seattle Times) 

Federal government puts out $412.9M to renew Pacific Salmon Initiative
The federal government is spending $412.9 million over five years to renew the Pacific Salmon Strategy in a plan to protect and rebuild wild populations. Chuck Chiang reports. (Canadian Press) 

Local News Day 2026
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It keeps us informed. It keeps leaders accountable. It keeps our stories alive. Be part of what keeps this place connected.
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The Moon of the Palolo Worm
In the Pacific Islands, communities count on the annual spawning of a species of sea worm to fill bellies, spark celebration, and shape peoples’ sense of time. Katarina Zimmer reports. (bioGraphic) 

Welcome the Whales
Come celebrate the return of the “Sounders,” a group of gray whales who divert from their northern migration along the Washington coast each spring to spend a few weeks feeding on the ghost shrimp that occur along Whidbey shorelines. Parade and festival brought to you by Orca Network and the Langley Chamber of Commerce, April 10-12. Information. 

Democracy Watch

• Months later, DOJ lawsuit to obtain WA voter rolls can move forward (Washington State Standard) 

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Here's your tug weather— 
West Entrance U.S. Waters Strait Of Juan De Fuca-  146 PM PDT Tue Apr 7 2026    
WED  E wind 5 to 10 kt. Seas 3 to 5 ft. Wave Detail: W 4 ft at  9 seconds and W 3 ft at 13 seconds. WED NIGHT  NW wind 5 to 10 kt, veering to E after midnight.  Seas 3 to 5 ft. Wave Detail: NW 2 ft at 8 seconds and W 3 ft at  11 seconds.

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"Salish Sea News & Weather" is compiled as a community service by Mike Sato. It is included as a daily feature in the Salish Current newsletter. Click here to subscribe. Questions? Email msato(at)salish-current.com. Your email information is never shared and you can unsubscribe at any time.



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