The fact that the corps study did not include mitigation is another bone of contention to economists. The economic impact of having healthy, spiritually vibrant tribes as a result of a rebound in salmon harvests was barely mentioned in the study. Economics may drive politics, but politicians present a very narrow view of the figures when it suits them. Casavant says, at the very least, he wishes politicians such as Sen. Slade Gorton would make clear what figures they are using. Because it sells them in the Colfax, Washington, and the small rural towns.
Folks win elections that way.
Cate Montana reports from the Pacific Northwest.