And while these issues seem to be getting more controversial all the time, by stepping up to those challenges fishery science has an opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the environmental movement. I am thinking specifically of the problem of saving Pacific salmon. I applied for my current position working on Columbia River salmon problems because I had a sense that a bit of important history was being made here. Four factors distinguish this issue from other endangered species cases. And finally, the costs of habitat rehabilitation will be enormous.
More recent estimates are about twice that amount.
In short, for the first time we have met the enemy, and the enemy is us. How we solve this dilemma will indicate the real strength of the environmental movement and society's willingness to make individual sacrifices for the common good. For the case of Snake River salmon, the public policy decisions required by the ESA are numerous and difficult. There is considerable scientific uncertainty surrounding all of these questions. Empirical studies alone cannot provide sufficient guidance to managers charged with making these difficult public policy decisions.