Why should you join the SRSS?
Conservation and fishing groups can’t do everything that’s needed. Although these excellent organizations have led court challenges to the federal government’s failed salmon policies, and are essential in a widely-supported salmon recovery effort, they are not allowed to engage in political activities directly.
In over 15 years of bureaucratic processes, the federal Government has thus far failed to create an effective, legal salmon recovery plan for the Snake River Basin. Millions of dollars are wasted on ineffective actions, while the actual limiting factors are ignored or under-emphasized. SRSS political contributions can change this.
Decisions about wild salmon restoration or extinction will be made in the political arena. The US Congress will be the principal battlegound. As of this writing, too few northwest Congressional members, Governors, and other political leaders have played a constructive role in finding pro-salmon solutions. Many have publicly called for policies that result in the extinction of wild salmon in the Snake River basin. Those who support salmon recovery need our support.
In current federal policy, key limiting factors in the Snake River Basin are ignored or underemphasized, including the impact of four unnecessary federal dams and reservoirs, Snake River water management, insufficient spring/early summer flows, and violations of the Clean Water Act. The SRSS urges politicians to address these actual limiting factors now, with direct political contributions and contacts.
Continue your memberships in other pro-salmon non-profit organizations – they are essential. But add a membership in the SRSS too, if you’re serious about making a difference for wild salmon in the Northwest, during your lifetime.
Political action supported by your membership in the SRSS will directly benefit salmon runs in the entire Columbia Basin.
