Depressed in 2002 because of a long-term negative trend and a short-term severe decline in escapements in 1997, 1998 and 2000. Generally, lower Columbia tule fall Chinook stocks, including Grays fall Chinook, experienced poor survival in the 1990s.

Hatchery closed in 98.
I didnt catch what the spawning age of these fish are, but since the last year was 2000 which suffered from escapement, your remark about hatchery closure, affecting spawning wild fish is a red herring. You cant blame hatchery reduction for the poor escapement. You can blame WDFW harvest policy. Commercial fishing should have been Banned. Poor escapement three years in a row would easily affect the next ten years of recovery. Thats assuming that escapement isnt reduced during those ten years. If those same fish spend time in Alaska and Canadian waters, I would not expect a quick recovery. If the seal poplulation is heavy, then they should be culled. If the area is in line for habitat improvements, its a prime candidate for pro wild fish organizations to organize a habitat project.