[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 79 (Friday, June 3, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1051]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         INTRODUCING THE ``SALMON SOLUTIONS AND PLANNING ACT''

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                           HON. JIM McDERMOTT

                             of washington

                    in the house of representatives

                          Friday, June 3, 2011

  Mr. McDERMOTT. Mr. Speaker, salmon are one of America's most precious 
but delicate resources. Since the construction of four Federal dams on 
the lower Snake River in Washington State, certain salmon species have 
become extinct. Others continue to see drastic declines in number. 
Today, thirteen salmon and steelhead species in the Columbia and Snake 
River Basin are listed for protection under the Endangered Species Act. 
If we do not act now, we stand to lose this valuable resource forever, 
which is why I am reintroducing the Salmon Solutions Planning Act.
  Salmon and steelhead populations have major economic, environmental 
and cultural significance to the Pacific Northwest. Generations of 
fishermen have relied on salmon as an integral part of their 
communities along the west coast. Today, even at their current 
depressed levels, salmon add hundreds of millions of dollars to the 
American economy and remain an essential part of communities around the 
Northwest. If we restore these populations to their original levels 
their economic benefits will reach well into the billions and these 
communities will be able to continue their rich traditions.
  Already we recognize the importance of preserving this precious 
resource. The Federal Government and ratepayers in the Pacific 
Northwest have spent more than $10 billion in salmon recovery efforts 
on the Columbia and Snake River Basin. These efforts, while 
commendable, have done little to help salmon populations recover. This 
legislation commissions studies to focus our efforts so that all 
factors are taken into account when considering removal. It is critical 
that our salmon recovery efforts be informed, cost effective, and 
successful.
  Without action, scientists estimate that several of the salmon 
populations could be extinct in less than 20 years. The time to act is 
now. Salmon are the lifeblood of the Pacific Northwest, and we, as a 
country, cannot afford to lose this national treasure.

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