Healthy wild salmon runs are an economic and cultural resource for the tribes and for thousands of fishing families in rural communities and a large part of our quality of life. This decision doesn't get made in only Eastern or Western Washington, but it must involve both communities. However, I am very concerned about statements from the Seattle Post-Intelligencer and elected leaders such as Sen. Slade Gorton who question why the Seattle City Council has taken a position on this issue. The four dams are federal projects and are built and operated with taxpayer and ratepayer dollars. Salmon are a regional resource and a national treasure.
Wild salmon belong to everyone, including our children and their children.
Communities from Idaho to California and Alaska all have a stake in Columbia and Snake rivers salmon decisions. Ratepayers and taxpayers across the region will be affected by this decision. As I see it, the Seattle City Council is trying to do what's best for our entire region. This decision is not about city vs. rural. Many rural fishing families from Riggins, Idaho, to Astoria, Ore., to southeast Alaska and California have seen jobs and dollars lost due to fishing restrictions driven by the declines in Snake River salmon.