ACWA Statement on Closure of Chinook Salmon Fishing

Association of California Water Agencies (ACWA) Executive Director Timothy Quinn released the following statement today regarding the closure of this year’s commercial and recreational salmon fishing season:

“Yesterday’s decision highlights one of the most perplexing problems facing resource managers. Coming after a decade of relative health and upwards of $1 billion invested in habitat and fish passage improvements, the salmon decline is another troubling sign that our environment is struggling.

“There is compelling evidence that ocean conditions are part of the problem, and we must begin to address that reality. We must also continue to improve inland habitat and fish passage. Like so many fish-related issues today, there are many stressors involved and it will take a comprehensive approach and the cooperation of every sector involved to find the answer.

“Local water agencies, many of whom have spent millions of ratepayer dollars on habitat improvements, want to be part of the solution. But they also want assurance that water supplies and facilities will not be the sole focus when it comes to addressing the problem.

“It’s critical that the Legislature move ahead with a comprehensive package that includes improvements in the Delta’s water conveyance system to reduce conflicts between environmental and economic needs for water. We simply must invest in the environmental integrity of the system, while continuing to invest in habitat improvements and ecosystem restoration. We must also make substantial new investments in water conservation, water recycling and other strategies that improve local water supply reliability and reduce pressure on the Delta.”

ACWA is a statewide association of public agencies whose 450 members are responsible for about 90% of the water delivered in California. For more information, visit www.acwa.com.