Salmon recovery projects awarded more than $4M grant

MOUNT VERNON, Wash. — The Salmon Recovery Funding Board and Puget Sound Partnership have awarded more than $4 million to salmon recovery projects in northwest Washington state.

The Skagit Valley Herald reported Wednesday that 13 programs receiving funding in Skagit County aim to benefit endangered chinook salmon.

Partnership Executive Director Laura Blackmore says the money supports projects that restore salmon populations vital to the Puget Sound food chain.

Blackmore says restoring habitats will also help struggling orcas that feed on the salmon.

Some of the project funding also aims to benefit other fish species and restore local marsh, creeks and beaches.