Outlined both by its coastline and by the watersheds that reach deep into its lands, In the Cascade Bioregion as an example, Salmon Nation's geographical boundaries are simply defined: anywhere Pacific salmon have ever run. “Salmon Nation” inspires changes in human behavior for the benefit of salmon and coastal watersheds in the Cascade Bioregion because salmon are the “common thread” of this region. They are the linchpin (something that serves to hold together the elements of a complex circumstance or system) of all that happens in the Pacific Northwest. Each bite of salmon has a story to tell – know the story and help yourself. The stories of this place inform our lives. "Follow the fish!" In search of a regional icon — or of a single indicator by which to measure regional health — one could hardly do better.

There is interconnectedness to this region implied by salmon. One hundred and thirty seven (137) species depend upon salmon as part of their nourishment. Every summertime stream that carries at least a bit of running water is probably home to some species of salmon. Each salmon is wired for its native stream – suggesting to humans that experience makes a difference. And not only do the forests surrounding these streams raise the salmon, but the salmon also nourish the forest. Equally important, eventually your neighbor's runoff becomes your tap water – we all live downstream.

This shared dependence is the very meaning of community, and in the end, the heart of the matter. The focus on “Salmon Nation” as a galvanizing force, and the resulting prosperity this brings, is based on mutual interest of its people, rather than special interests that only meet the needs of a few. The first people of this region were wealthy thanks to the salmon. More recently, scientists surveying the importance of this fish to our flora and fauna have declared it a keystone of regional health.