And another's thoughts are in.


I have been a member of the Ad Hoc Advisory Committee which has been advising your staff on subject policy for several months. We have reviewed and commented on many approaches and associated computer runs. I have attended at least three lectures on HSRG standards and measures. We have seen many runs for our drainage using an assumed harvest rate of 14% on Natural Origin Recruits. At this rate it seems difficult but possible to make escapement goals for Chinook in 21 years or so. In the April 9 commission meeting, your staff presented you with proposals for a 20% harvest rate in an interim period for at least the first four years. In this proposal delays are so great as to stretch credibility of ever meeting escapement goals. I testified as such on the eighth. It will be essential to stick to the 14% harvest rate or lower for many years to come. Public input and participation has been extensive. Now is the time to stick to our knitting on this well aired subject. Fears by some on the commission about ESA listing are well founded and we must show some good faith effort here.

XXXX XXXXX