Timberman, I don't have all the answers. The situation is complex. Even the fisheries science changes. Not too long ago it told us to clear the streams, and we did. Now it tell us to cable debris back in.

I also don't want to turn this into a ping-pong match. I know your frustration stems from a concern for the resource.

Western Washington Indians were considered by the government to be the legal owners of the land in the mid 1800's. To gain that land from the tribes the government entered into a treaty with them. The tribes had to sign or get squat for the land they held. The reservations are a fraction of that land. The treaty also reserved hunting and fishing rights on the land taken.

Indians are not the only ones with casinos in Washington. Only those working in fish related fields are tax exempt. They lose social security benefits if they are.

I have a simple 3 part plan to try and make the situation we are in work, cause I don't think the Bolt decision will be reversed.

1-Accurate data/info to anyone interested. (This board has a ton of info)

2-More enforcement that gets the job done on all sides. (Just need $$)

3-Continue to improve and test the science. (Bob talked about in-river accoustic counters in Alaska)


[This message has been edited by potter (edited 08-26-2000).]

[This message has been edited by potter (edited 08-26-2000).]