Director's Message: To All of Our Partners, Thank You!
As we near the end of another year I wanted to take this opportunity to say thank you.
Dear Partners,
As we reflect on another remarkable year at the Western Fisheries Research Center, I want to take a moment to thank you—our collaborators, colleagues, and community—for your continued partnership and support. Together, we’ve advanced critical science, tackled emerging challenges, and deepened our understanding of aquatic ecosystems across the West.
Our quarterly newsletter, Something Fishy, has highlighted just a few of the many ways our work with all of you is making an impact. From uncovering the culprit behind the devastating sea star wasting disease, to tracking salmon populations navigating a post-dam Klamath River, we are jointly delivering high-impact, impartial research that informs conservation and management.
We’ve also expanded our collaborative reach—partnering with Tribal nations, state and federal agencies, academic institutions, and private organizations. Whether it’s assessing the spread of invasive mussels in the Columbia River Basin or investigating the effects of tire-derived chemicals on fish health, our work is stronger because of the diverse expertise and perspectives you bring to the table.
Looking ahead, we remain focused on the future of fisheries science. We’re investing in new technologies, fostering the next generation of researchers, and continuing to ask bold questions about the resilience of aquatic species and ecosystems in a changing world.
Thank you for being part of this journey. We invite you to stay connected, explore our latest research, and reach out with ideas, questions, or opportunities to collaborate. Together, we’re making waves in aquatic science.
Warm regards,
Michael W. Schmidt
Center Director
Western Fisheries Research Center
U.S. Geological Survey