Neanderthal, sorry for the confusion on the term "environmentalists". The groups I am talking about are those that do not agree with hunting, any form of fishing (because it is tramatic to the fish yes, even C/R), think that trees have feelings, the ones who put railroad spikes in trees so the logger loses a leg when the chainsaw bucks or the green-belt operator gets killed when it comes flying out after the saw hits it, put sugar and sand in the gas tanks of heavy machinary, would rather eat a big white block of tofu than a prime rib steak (got a little carried away - maybe not the last one). Hope this clears that up. However, you mentioned that the "enviromentalists are the only ones who seem to be fighting", implying that it is better than nothing. Maybe or maybe not, but from what I know to be factual these groups of individuals are NOT fighting for the same thing the average sportsman/woman is fighting for. Guaruuunteeeed!! The next time you see a media promotion indorsing "save this or that" make sure you look behind the pretty picture of the salmon or whatever and see what "riders" they have and what the campain is all about. Basically, read the fine print. As far as the Power companies being more concerned for the salmon and ironheads, well I would like to say that is why they are "thinking" about removing the dams. However, we all know this is not true. No matter what the power comapies are not going to give up a multi-multi million dollar facility for nothing. They are going to get something worth just as much if not more in the long run whether it is huge tax cuts, money loans with zero interest rates, grant money, whatever. They have ALOT of power and will not be afraid to flex their muscles if they have to.

To play the devil's advocate, I may not agree with what the "extremest" (better term) are fighting for and the reason why, but I will say this I admire them for their tenacious true grit in fighting so vigorously for what they believe in. I could almost say I am jealous of their convictions. I wish the sport fishing groups had a little more of this "raw emotion".

trout