Mid-March marks the peak of Pacific herring (Clupea pallasii) spawning in Puget Sound and other protected bays throughout the Pacific Northwest. This spectacular annual event transforms nearshore waters, turning them milky white from billions of eggs laid on eelgrass, kelp, and other substrates. Male herring release milt that clouds the water, creating the characteristic whitish appearance that can be visible for miles. Herring spawning attracts massive congregations of wildlife including sea lions, harbor seals, humpback whales, bald eagles, gulls, and diving ducks, all feeding on the nutrient-rich spawn and spawning fish. Traditional indigenous peoples throughout the region harvested herring eggs on kelp fronds, and this event remains culturally significant to Coast Salish and other tribes. The spawning typically lasts 2-3 weeks and represents one of the Pacific Northwest's most important ecological events.

Wild ramps and onion greens are findable in riparian woodlands; the earliest yellow morel mushrooms may begin appearing near cottonwood and ash groves along low-elevation river valleys—the leading edge of morel season. Spring Chinook fishing is active on the Willamette and lower Columbia, and razor clam digs continue on Washington ocean beaches through late March.

Attend **HerringFest** on Hornby Island (BC), a community celebration of the Pacific herring spawn held each spring — featuring guided shoreline walks, Indigenous teachings, and family-friendly events around one of the Salish Sea's most important ecological events. Learn more at [conservancyhornbyisland.org/herringfest](/events/british-columbia/herringfest).