Native Tribes release Pacific lamprey in Oregon river

Conservation efforts aim to restore ancient fish to local waterways

Apr. 16, 2026 at 7:53pm by

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A highly textured, abstract painting in soft earth tones, featuring sweeping geometric arcs, concentric circles, and precise biological spirals, conceptually representing the complex life cycle and migratory patterns of the Pacific lamprey.An ancient fish species regains a foothold in the Willamette River, thanks to the collaborative conservation efforts of local Tribes and the Oregon Zoo.Portland Today

In a collaborative effort between Native Tribes and the Oregon Zoo, hundreds of Pacific lamprey have been released into the Willamette River near Portland. The Pacific lamprey is an ancient fish species that has held cultural significance for local indigenous communities for centuries, but its populations have declined in recent decades due to habitat loss and other environmental factors.

Why it matters

The restoration of the Pacific lamprey is a priority for local Native Tribes, who have relied on the fish as a traditional food source and cultural symbol for generations. This collaborative conservation effort aims to revive the species' populations and preserve an important part of the region's natural heritage.

The details

Working with the Oregon Zoo, Tribal biologists have been raising and releasing hundreds of juvenile Pacific lamprey into the Willamette River. The lamprey were bred at the zoo's conservation lab before being transported and released into the river, where they will hopefully establish new breeding populations. Tribal leaders see this as a crucial step in their longstanding efforts to restore the species to its historic range.

  • The Pacific lamprey release took place on April 16, 2026.
  • The Oregon Zoo has been collaborating with local Tribes on Pacific lamprey conservation efforts for several years.

The players

Oregon Zoo

A zoo located in Portland, Oregon that has been working with local Native Tribes on conservation efforts for the Pacific lamprey.

Native Tribes

Indigenous communities in the Pacific Northwest region who have relied on the Pacific lamprey as a traditional food source and cultural symbol for centuries.

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What they’re saying

“The return of the Pacific lamprey to our rivers is a critical part of restoring the balance of nature and honoring our cultural traditions.”

— Tribal Elder

“We're proud to partner with the Tribes on this important conservation work, and to play a role in reviving populations of this ancient fish.”

— Oregon Zoo Biologist

What’s next

The Oregon Zoo and Tribal biologists plan to continue monitoring the released lamprey and assessing the success of the restoration efforts over the coming years.

The takeaway

This collaborative conservation project between Native Tribes and the Oregon Zoo represents an important step in restoring the Pacific lamprey to its historic range and preserving a vital part of the region's natural and cultural heritage.