Pacific salmon and steelhead (Oncorhynchus spp.) are ecologically, economically, and culturally vital species, providing essential ecosystem services such as the contribution of marine-derived nutrients and a reliable food source for terrestrial wildlife. The anadromous life cycle of most Pacific salmon species—spanning freshwater, estuarine, and marine environments—exposes them to diverse environmental stressors that vary with each life stage. Understanding how juvenile salmon and steelhead interact with these environments and their specific habitat requirements is critical, especially during the sensitive rearing phase, when habitat quality is crucial for their survival and growth. This research focused on juvenile rearing habitat suitability for O. mykiss (steelhead) and O. kisutch (coho salmon) in freshwater habitats of the Oregon Coast. By analyzing more than 20 years of historical aquatic inventory data and juvenile salmonid monitoring data from Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW), we identified environmental variables that define suitable habitat in terms of species occupancy and habitat preference. Additionally, the study integrated remotely sensed data to assess which habitat characteristics could be effectively monitored using GIS-based data, offering a scalable approach to habitat analysis. Our partners at ODFW are currently in the process of overhauling their habitat monitoring program. Findings from this project will directly inform methods for evaluating and monitoring juvenile salmonid rearing habitat, and will contribute to the development of an integrated population model. The model will assist ODFW and other partner agencies in predicting adult returns of Oregon Coast coho salmon and steelhead populations, ultimately supporting more targeted conservation and management efforts and harvest strategies for these critical species.
