We appreciated the Herald’s May 23 editorial reminding readers that Columbia and Snake
River salmon are on the threshold of extinction (“Act now to save salmon, regardless of dams’ fate,” The Herald, May 23). We urge The Herald and its readers to communicate your concerns about salmon to Gov. Jay Inslee and our Washington legislators.
Sen. Patty Murray and Gov. Inslee have called for a regional process to address this ecological and economic crisis, to honor Tribal treaties, and to support agriculture and energy. This announcement followed Idaho Rep. Mike Simpson’s framework — based on three years and hundreds of stakeholder meetings — to address the challenges facing salmon, Northwest Tribes, and communities throughout Idaho, Oregon and Washington.
The Murray/Inslee stakeholder process must move forward expeditiously to reach a conclusion in months, not years. Rep. Simpson took three years to engage stakeholders and develop his plan. We must build upon his foundation instead of starting over. Salmon cannot wait. Orcas cannot wait.
The infrastructure bill being developed at the federal level provides a unique opportunity to secure funding for planning, implementation, and addressing the needs of communities that will be affected by Snake River dam removal and other steps necessary to bring salmon back. The moment to secure that funding is now as our country prepares to make extensive investments in infrastructure and while the Northwest congressional delegation has the power to deliver it.
Tell our elected officials that it’s time to take action.
Marjie Fields and Nancy Johnson
Co-Chairs, Sno-Isle Sierra Club
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.
