If a localized situation exists where fish numbers are abnormally low, barriers to fish migration exist, and local predator numbers are high, then predation by seals and sea lions may have a significant adverse effect on individual salmonid populations. NMFS will work with Oregon and other states to address the issue of growing pinniped populations and their potential effects on depressed salmonid stocks in the Pacific Northwest. Currently, Oregon is working with California and Washington, as well as NMFS, to identify areas with potentially significant impacts of pinniped predation on salmonids. NMFS has expressed a concern about potential effects of growing pinniped populations on depressed salmon populations in the Pacific Northwest. In specific areas, pinniped predation could be hindering the rebuilding of salmon populations.
Additional research is necessary to determine the extent of actual impacts on salmonid populations.
Where predation is determined to be a significant problem, management actions consistent with the ESA and MMPA can be taken to reduce salmon mortality. NMFS will seek funding to assess pinniped interactions with salmon populations at critical sites and initiate appropriate management actions to minimize predation where assessments indicate such action is needed. Interactions Among Risk Agents Many human activities and natural processes, individually, can cause a decease in salmon populations, in the productive capacity of populations, and in the productive capacity of their supporting habitats. Interactions of risk agents can compound these effects. The Oregon coho situation presents an example of interactions among risk agents.