Silver H - FYI - here is the letter that my state rep said they sent today after getting my email (could have used some adjustments - but it's better than nothing...):

January 16, 2004



Dr. Jeff Koenings

Director

Washington Fish And

Wildlife Commission

MS 43200

Olympia, WA 98504



I am writing to ask for your support in the area of the Columbia River Spring Salmon Fishery.



In the near future, Oregon and Washington departments of fish and wildlife will be deciding how to allocate the catch of Columbia River Spring salmon between sport and commercial fishermen. While the run this year is expected to be fairly strong, the season will likely be shut down for the sport fishermen, due to presumed impacts on wild salmon that run at the same time as the hatchery salmon. It is my understanding that the catch is allocated between sport and commercial fishermen, based on their estimated impact to wild fish.



It is my further understanding that proposals are on the table to allocate the impacts between sport and commercial fishermen 50-50, or possibly 45% commercial, and 55% sport. I am in support of a greater percentage of the catch to be allocated to sports fisherman.



Following the conclusion of the Oregon legislature, their state’s sports fisherman saw the sport reduced by almost 28%. I am concerned that something similar could happen in Washington. Sport fishing benefits both the state and local economy by providing revenue from permits and licenses and supporting local angler and supply shops.



Please do not hesitate to contact my office if you have any question.



Sincerely,







Glenn Anderson

State Representative

5th Legislative District