Fisheries management regimes developed by the tribes and state for waters within 3 miles of the coast must be consistent with PFMC plans. Adult salmon returning to Washington migrate through both U.S. and Canadian waters and are harvested by fishermen from both countries. The PSC does not regulate salmon fisheries, but provides regulatory advice and recommendations, and a forum for the two countries to reach agreement on mutual fisheries issues. In years when treaty agreements are not reached, the tribes have worked to ensure fisheries are still managed responsibly. In addition to serving at the policy level on the PSC and its panels, tribal representatives also participate on the many committees and work groups which provide technical support to implement the treaty.
Tribes also conduct research as an integral part of the treaty s implementation.
Member tribes are Nisqually, Squaxin Island, Puyallup, Jamestown S Klallam, Port Gamble S Klallam, Lower Elwha Klallam, Skokomish, Swinomish, Sauk-Suiattle, Upper Skagit, Tulalip, Makah, Stillaguamish, Muckleshoot, Suquamish, Nooksack, Lummi, Quinault and Quileute. The tribes select commissioners who develop policy and provide direction. The commission s executive director supervises the staff that implements the policies and fisheries management activities approved by the commissioners. The Administration Division includes the executive director, human resources and operations administrator, director of fishery services, fishery and legislative policy analysts, and clerical and accounting departments. The Fishery Services Program supports and promotes the fishery programs of member tribes by providing technical assistance, coordinating management programs and representing tribal management policies.