Herring return in significant numbers to Auke Bay

JUNEAU, Alaska (AP) — Pacific herring are returning to Auke Bay to spawn in the most significant numbers seen in decades.

Whether the fishery is becoming healthier won't be seen until scientists see if the eggs are fertilized and if they survive.

The Juneau Empire reports Lynn Canal herring stocks have been depressed for decades. For the past seven years until recently, first Lynn Canal and then Southeast herring stocks were under consideration for listing as an endangered species, but neither population was deemed distinct enough for the listing.

The herring fishery closed in Lynn Canal and a...