Thanks for the PM's and contact emails.

Some asked about the issue of rights to surface, and where the the conflict is.

The tribal assertion (on their letterhead, see web site "Letters") is that:
"Additional boats in the area (from the launch) will affect Tribal fishing by impeding Tribal fishers' ability to maneuver and safely manage fishing gear. " (They are talking about the 150 sq mile, Area 9 in Puget Sound.)

Here is the WDFW reply to that, written to the US Army Corps:
"...that claim implies that the Tribe has exclusive rights to the surface waters within their U&A. WDFW believes the Tribe's off-reservation treaty fishing rights must be exercised in common with all other state citizens. The public has the right to recreate and fish over the state's navigable waters." (Again, see "Letters")


...So, the tribal assertion, if accepted by the Corps, could be made at ANY ramp in the state, no matter where you are. This is not just a Point No Point issue.



...So, the tribal assertion, if accepted by the Corps, could be made at EVERY ramp in the state, no matter where you are. This is not just a Point No Point issue.