Neither FERC nor Tacoma are likely to agree to a solution which will restore the Skokomish watershed. Therefore, the tribe is now working with Rep. Norm Dicks to develop a legislative solution to resolve the fisheries and water resource conflicts associated with the project. To help the Skokomish Tribe restore the river, get a copy of the DEIS, attend and speak at hearings following the release of the DEIS, and submit written comments. In Washington state, only Rep. Jim McDermott has backed national legislation calling for rBGH labeling. Sen. Patty Murray has not yet committed, according to Jim Ganong, a local anti-rBGH activist.
Activists object to rBGH for three reasons.
Some question the human health effects of genetically engineered additives, especially since cows injected with rBGH tend to develop udder infections, which can dramatically increase the pus and blood content in milk. Infected animals need antibiotics, which can further taint the milk. Animal rights concerns also exist, since many cows experience harmful side effects. Still others question the need for more milk, when there is already an overproduction of milk in the US, much of which is dumped. Washington State's big producer, Darigold, has committed to not using rBGH in most of its products, but probably still produces dried milk with the hormone, according to the latest report by the Provender Journal , which has provided consumers with a list of companies who have and have not committed to rBGH-free products.