Salmon Fishermen Applaud End of Federal Water Legislation

Earlier this week, Sen. Dianne Feinstein withdrew proposed water legislation that salmon fishermen viewed as a threat to their livlihood.

The Golden Gate Salmon Association applauded the move.

“Any federal legislation that seeks to shift the balance of water distribution has to consider the interests of salmon and fishing communities since they’ve been hurt the worst by past water allocation decisions,” said John McManus, Golden Gate Salmon Association in a prepared statement. “This legislative effort didn’t do that. The next time legislators consider California water issues, the interests and views of salmon fishermen need to be included.

“Salmon need and deserve a fair share of the water that falls as rain and snow every year in California, something this bill failed to reflect.

“Salmon fishermen, related businesses, and salmon advocates are grateful this threat to our jobs and livelihood is lifted for the moment. We’re grateful to those who spoke out to protect our salmon fishery and the communities that depend on it.”

--Photo at Johnson Pier by Bea Karnes