Hundreds turn out to Willamette River for Yakama Nation lamprey celebration

Several hundred people gathered by the Willamette River to celebrate the Pacific lamprey, a jawless fish often overlooked but deeply respected by the Yakama Nation. This celebration highlighted the ecological and cultural significance of the lamprey, which plays a vital role in the river ecosystem. The event underscores the importance of preserving these native species and the traditions of Indigenous communities that have long depended on them. This gathering is part of a broader effort to raise awareness about the often-overlooked creatures that sustain our natural environment.