I'll ask the impolite question...

How few fish is too few? Nobody wants a fish run to disappear OF COURSE, but when do you throw in the towel?

The entire system is being managed for literally a few dozen fish that have shown no signs of recovery. Not to mention all the bad blood that's arisen between people over this. On the surface, it doesn't seem to make alot of sense. These fish are holding us hostage.

Seattle is exploding and even more habitat loss is inevitable. The future is not bright for these wild fish. Hatcheries were created to mitigate habitat loss. A hatchery fish is not as good as a wild fish, but is waaaaaay better than no fish. Maybe let hatcheries do what they were created to do?

In reality I know that throwing in the towel is not viable. Governmental agencies and other groups would not allow it. I'm sure they will manage it right down to zero, and beyond.

But is there a precedent for throwing in the towel on particular conservation efforts, and perhaps using those resources on conservation efforts that show promise? Would anybody have the political will and clout to do that?