For the first time in decades, something truly special is happening at Russian Gulch Creek in Jenner Headlands Preserve — juvenile coho salmon have returned. These tiny, silvery fish are making their way through the cool, clear waters of the creek, a place the species hasn’t been seen in generations.

Their return didn’t happen by chance. It’s the result of years of care and commitment from The Wildlands Conservancy and our partners, who have worked steadily to restore the creek’s natural flow, improve habitat, and remove barriers so these endangered salmon could once again find their way home.

Seeing young coho here again is a hopeful sign for the health of our coastal watersheds and for all the life they support. It’s proof that when we nurture the land and water, nature responds in remarkable ways.