Johnny, You make some good points in your post, especially about walking in another man's shoes. However, just what part of living near a river was surprising to this landowner? That rivers flood? That they are protected by law? That he was at risk? I am sick and tired of folks believing that they "own" the river. I saw it in the article about WSR - believe the quote was about how Seattlites were coming over to fish their rivers. The rivers and the resource are owned by the public and when someone takes this kind of action, they are hurting everyone. They should be prosecuted to the full extent of the law and if necessary, be made an example of. Living on a river has many advantages, however, there are realities that one must be aware of. No man should be above the law. And, no man is above the laws of flowing water!!!