Like everything, the problem is complex. Historically, there were also millions of chum spawning in the lower reaches of rivers and streams. So, the difference between chums decomposing in the salt vs. in the lower reaches of streams may not amount to much.

They don't know if there was a problem with oxygen historically-- hopefully they will understand what the range of "normal" is with the studies.

I can tell you that most of the focus seems to be with septics, and the people that deal with septics think that there is a disproportionate focus on that issue.

It will come down to whether everyone is willing to change a little. The tribes will have to agree to stop the chum dumping, people will have to agree to fix their septics and counties will have to deal with stormwater.

And, in the short term, both shrimping and crabbing seasons are probably gone. It may help to raise awareness and motivate people to make some positive changes quickly because of the huge impact to the local economy.