Boots in the River: Volunteers Help Maintain the Russian River Fishery
Contributed by Mary Glaves
On a cool May morning, before the crowds and the salmon arrive in full force, a group of volunteers gathered along one of Alaska’s most beloved fishing destinations with a simple goal: leave the river better than they found it.
On May 30, volunteers with the Alaska Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers joined Stream Watch and the U.S. Forest Service on the Russian River to install temporary fencing along heavily used sections of the river corridor ahead of the summer fishing season. Armed with post drivers, fencing materials, waders, and plenty of determination, the crew spent the day working to protect sensitive streambank habitat while helping ensure anglers can continue to enjoy the fishery for years to come.
The Russian River is world-renowned for its salmon runs and attracts thousands of anglers each summer. That popularity, while a testament to the river’s incredible fishing opportunities, also creates challenges. Heavy foot traffic can damage streamside vegetation, increase erosion, and degrade the habitat that salmon and other wildlife depend on.
The fencing project is a practical solution to those challenges. By guiding anglers toward designated access points and away from vulnerable areas, the fencing helps preserve vegetation, stabilize streambanks, and reduce sediment entering the river. Healthy riparian habitat is critical to maintaining clean water and productive fish habitat throughout the watershed.
For many volunteers, the project was about more than installing fence posts. It was an opportunity to give back to a place that has provided countless memories, meals, and adventures. Throughout the day, stories were exchanged between swings of the post driver, friendships were strengthened, and a shared commitment to conservation was put into action.
Conservation often begins with policy discussions and public meetings, but stewardship happens on the ground. It happens when volunteers show up, get their boots wet, and dedicate their time and energy to caring for the places they love.
Projects like the Russian River fencing effort demonstrate the power of community-based conservation. When hunters, anglers, agency staff, and local volunteers work together, meaningful improvements can be made for fish, wildlife, and the people who enjoy these resources.
The Alaska Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers extends its sincere thanks to all who participated, as well as Stream Watch and the U.S. Forest Service for their partnership. Special thanks go to project leaders Jeff Knisley and his wife, Kam, for organizing the effort and helping make the day a success.
The work may have only taken a day, but its impact will last throughout the fishing season. It also serves as a reminder that maintaining Alaska’s wild places is a responsibility shared by all who benefit from them.