"We are also working on the restoration of salmon runs, and we are doing a new process of mass marking with these fish so we can tell the wild fish from the hatchery fish"

In this quote, Norm Dicks is dealing with efforts to restore salmon runs, an essential eco-friendly and ecological undertaking. Salmon runs refer to the seasonal migration of salmon from the ocean back to freshwater rivers where they generate their offspring. These migrations are crucial for the survival of salmon species and have substantial environmental implications, contributing to the health of river communities and functioning as a food source for various animals, consisting of human beings.

The term "repair" suggests that there has been a decrease or disturbance in these natural migration patterns, likely due to human activities such as dam building, water pollution, overfishing, and habitat damage. Bring back salmon runs includes efforts to reverse these impacts and make sure that salmon can successfully complete their migration and spawning cycles.

The second part of the quote, "we are doing a brand-new procedure of mass marking with these fish so we can tell the wild fish from the hatchery fish," describes comparing salmon that are born and grow in natural environments ("wild fish") and those that are raised in controlled environments ("hatchery fish"). Mass marking typically includes tagging or otherwise recognizing hatchery-raised fish to monitor their populations and understand their interactions with wild counterparts.

The ability to compare these fish is essential for several reasons. Wild salmon populations are frequently more genetically varied and adjusted to local ecological conditions, making them more resistant to modifications and crucial to save. Hatchery fish, on the other hand, are raised to supplement declining wild populations and support fishing industries. Nevertheless, their interbreeding with wild fish can often lead to hereditary dilution, presenting threats to the wild populations' survival and adaptability.

Therefore, this quote highlights the vital work being done to protect the delicate balance of salmon environments and types. The dual approach of bring back natural environments and keeping track of hatchery fish helps keep both the eco-friendly integrity and economic value of salmon runs.