STATE OF WASHINGTON
OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR
P.O. Box 40002 · Olympia, Washington 98504-0002 · (360) 753-6780 · FAX (360) 753-4110
November 10, 1999
|
TO: |
Independent Science Panel |
|
FROM: |
Curt Smitch, Special Assistant for Natural Resources |
|
SUBJECT: |
Request for review of the Statewide Strategy to Recover Salmon |
The Independent Science Panel (Panel) was created by the Legislature in 1998 to provide scientific oversight of Washington's salmon, steelhead, trout, and char recovery efforts. The purpose of this letter is to request that the Panel review and comment on the Final Draft of "Extinction is Not an Option", the Statewide Strategy to Recover Salmon (Strategy).
The Strategy was developed by the Joint Natural Resources Cabinet with assistance and comments from tribal, local, and federal governments, non?governmental organizations, and individuals. It is intended to form the overarching framework upon which various elements needed for recovery of wild salmonids would be implemented. A formal revision process will be initiated next fall and we took forward to your insights on how to improve it. We expect that the timing of the revision cycle will be sufficient for you to conduct your scientific review of the document and any related or supportive materials you deem important.
You are encouraged to range as widely as you desire in your review. However, we will be interested in your responses to the questions below.
1. From a scientific perspective what is your opinion of the mission, goals, guiding principles, objectives, elements, and approaches outlined in the Statewide Strategy to Recover Salmon? Are they the most efficient and effective for state agencies to undertake to begin the process of recovery?
2. Are some essential components missing or inadequately addressed? If so, please explain.
3. Are some components unneeded or inappropriate? If so, please explain.
4. In general, what are your recommendations to improve the Statewide Strategy to Recover Salmon?
5. What advice can you offer at this time regarding development of an Implementation Plan for the Statewide Strategy to Recover Salmon? Again, we look forward to your thoughts at this important juncture in the state's salmon recovery process. If you have any questions or needs associated with this request, please contact Mr. Steven Leider of the Governor's Salmon Recovery Office at (360) 902?2242, or me at (360) 902-0634.
Thank you.
Attachment
cc: Governor Locke