"I think most all are coming down due to their age, the benefits to salmon just help secure funding to pay for it, which lets the owners off the hook"

I do not disagree with that statement.

But now is the time to get the "NO FISHING FOR ANYONE" agreement.
If we give them the funding without some type of guarantee they will never give up their control.

I see in the future at the Pike Place Market a sign that says
"WILD 100lb ELWAH RIVER SALMON"

can you imagine those boys at the fish market trying to throw a 80lb chinook over the counter while a bunch of tourists snap pictures.

Im just saying lets get control over the State and Tribes before we give them the funding.

once again I apologize for my cynicism

I am sure all parties involved have great intentions but in my life experiences great intentions do not always pan out as planned.