RiverPartners Supports Call for Harvest and Hatchery Reforms

Portland, Ore. – 01/26/06 – Northwest RiverPartners applauds the Administrations’ announcement today calling for added focus on the roles of harvest and hatcheries in salmon recovery, in addition to operations of the federal hydrosystem. “Clearly, efforts to protect and recover Northwest salmon and other fish species require a comprehensive approach that includes a more serious look at harvest levels and hatcheries if the region is to succeed”, said Terry Flores, Director of Northwest RiverPartners. 

Northwest RiverPartners is a nonprofit, non-partisan coalition of farmers, businesses, utilities and river users that formed in the spring of 2005 to improve salmon restoration efforts in the Pacific Northwest. RiverPartners members rely on the Columbia and Snake River systems for energy and commerce and will continue to do their part to make sure the federal dams are operated responsibly.

“The hydrosystem alone can only do so much.” Flores continued, “Salmon restoration efforts must rely on sound science and recognize there are many other factors besides dams – including ocean conditions, hatchery policies and harvest – that affect salmon throughout their lifecycle.”

Over $700 million annually is being invested by regional electric consumers in fish recovery efforts through Bonneville Power Administration programs and changes to hydrosystem operations.

Jean Ryckman, chairwoman of Northwest RiverPartners said “We are pleased to see the Administration putting more of a spotlight on these issues.   Representatives Walden, Baird and Dicks showed great bi-partisan leadership in putting harvest on the table for regional discussion, and the Administration’s announcement today will help further salmon recovery efforts” Ryckman concluded. 

Northwest RiverPartners was founded on the belief that the Columbia and Snake Rivers are the Northwest’s greatest natural resource, providing residents with clean and affordable electricity, irrigation for our farm lands, healthy fish and wildlife, maritime trade, and a multitude of recreational opportunities.

Contact: 
Terry Flores
Director
(503) 274-7792
(503) 367-9997