Scientists see improved ocean conditions for young salmon

SEATTLE (AP) – Young salmon could see improved conditions this year off the Washington and Oregon coasts.

The Seattle Times reports scientists in a conference call with reporters say the ocean is more hospitable for salmon entering the ocean, several year after an unusually warm water event.

A marine heat wave dubbed “The Blob” disrupted the ocean food chain.

Research biologist Chris Harvey of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says scientists are seeing several signs of recovery.

Research surveys in 2018 confirmed that tiny animals stoking the food web are healthy and fat.

Researchers report important forage fish, anchovies, are increasing in number and that fish-eating sea birds are doing well.

But they say subsurface sea temperatures remain warmer than average in some areas.