It started as a glacier. Then, about 13,000 years ago, it was a trickle, then a stream, and eventually a rushing river meandering through the Olympic Peninsula. For thousands of years, life thrived off the ecosystem served by the Elwha River that fed into to the Strait of Juan De Fuca. Then it stopped. A century ago, a dam was built to harness the power of the water and convert it into electricity. The salmon that the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe relied on were cut off from their spawning grounds.

Ten years ago, that dam was taken down. In this special reprise episode, we look at the impact of the dam removal and how life in and around the Elwha is fighting its way back. 

This show would not be possible without listener support. You can help us continue to create this special immersive storytelling by donating at kuow.org/donate/thewild. Thank you.

THE WILD is a production of KUOW, Chris Morgan Wildlife, and the NPR Network. This episode was produced by Matt Martin and edited by Jim Gates. THE WILD is hosted, produced and written by Chris Morgan. Fact checking by Apryle Craig. Our theme music is by Michael Parker.

It started as a glacier. Then, about 13,000 years ago, it was a trickle, then a stream, and eventually a rushing river meandering through the Olympic Peninsula. For thousands of years, life thrived off the ecosystem served by the Elwha River that fed into to the Strait of Juan De Fuca. Then it stopped. A century ago, a dam was built to harness the power of the water and convert it into electricity. The salmon that the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe relied on were cut off from their spawning grounds.
Ten years ago, that dam was taken down. In this special reprise episode, we look at the impact of the dam removal and how life in and around the Elwha is fighting its way back. 
This show would not be possible without listener support. You can help us continue to create this special immersive storytelling by donating at <a href="http://kuow.org/donate/thewild">kuow.org/donate/thewild</a>. Thank you.
THE WILD is a production of KUOW, Chris Morgan Wildlife, and the NPR Network. This episode was produced by <a href="https://www.kuow.org/authors/matt-martin">Matt Martin</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.kuow.org/authors/jim-gates">Jim Gates</a>. THE WILD is hosted, produced and written by Chris Morgan. Fact checking by <a href="https://apryledcraig.wordpress.com/">Apryle Craig</a>. Our theme music is by <a href="https://www.michaeltparker.com/">Michael Parker</a>.

"THE WILD with Chris Morgan" explores how nature survives and thrives alongside (and often despite) humans. Taking listeners across the Pacific Northwest and around the world, host Chris Morgan explores wildlife and the complex web of ecosystems they inhabit. He also tells the stories of people working in and protecting the wild around us.

The Wild with Chris Morgan

"THE WILD" with Chris Morgan brings stories from the natural world right to your ears in a beautifully immersive way. You’ll feel like you are right there with Chris in wild places all over the world, alongside wildlife ecologists, researchers, and colorful characters on the front line. On every episode we set out to tell inspiring stories that carry you away, and fascinate you. As one listener put it “THE WILD is the Planet Earth of podcasts!”. Listen on the go, or as many fans tell us - in the wild. But don't forget to take time to listen to the wilderness, wherever you are. Listen and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts, and enjoy stories of hope for the planet we all share.

"THE WILD" with Chris Morgan brings stories from the natural world right to your ears in a beautifully immersive way. You’ll feel like you are right there with Chris in wild places all over the world, alongside wildlife ecologists, researchers, and colorful characters on the front line. On every episode we set out to tell inspiring stories that carry you away, and fascinate you. As one listener put it “THE WILD is the Planet Earth of podcasts!”. Listen on the go, or as many fans tell us - in the wild. But don't forget to take time to listen to the wilderness, wherever you are. Listen and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts, and enjoy stories of hope for the planet we all share.

Advertisement