Office of Governor Gary Locke
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - November 9, 2001
Contact:  Governor's Communications Office, 360-902-4136

Gov. Locke applauds strong federal commitment to salmon recovery

“I welcome the National Marine Fisheries Service’s announcement today to initiate new salmon restoration efforts. In response to the court decision in Alsea Valley Alliance vs. Evans, the fisheries service said it would focus its energy and resources on rebuilding salmon runs rather than appeal the court’s decision.

“The Bush Administration made it clear that they are going to support state and regional efforts to recover salmon. They recognize, as I do, that it makes no sense to halt our efforts because of a single court decision in Oregon. While there are issues in the court order NMFS needs to address, Judge Hogan did not say we should stop trying to protect and recover salmon. The fact is we need to do a better job of protecting our watersheds and taking care of our rivers and streams for both people and fish.

“I commend the federal government for this new commitment to salmon recovery here in Washington state and the region. The National Marine Fisheries Service, on behalf of the Bush Administration, has stated clearly that not only do they intend to stay the course on salmon protection and recovery, but they will immediately take actions to improve their efforts.

“As I told U.S. Commerce Secretary Donald Evans in a phone conversation early this afternoon, I am greatly encouraged by the Administration’s pledge in working to further strengthen salmon recovery policies in the Northwest. The secretary noted that Salmon Recovery Funding Board Chair William Ruckelshaus will play a key role in working directly with the Administration.”

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Related Links:
- National Marine Fisheries Service
- The White House, President George W. Bush
- Salmon Recovery Funding Board
- U.S. Department of Commerce

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