CCA Continues Advocacy for Harvest Reform, Recovery of Oregon’s Salmon Runs

PORTLAND – The following is a statement from Dave Schamp, Chairman of Coastal Conservation Association’s Oregon Board of Directors and a chief petitioner for the Protect Our Salmon Act (POSA), in response to changes made by the Oregon Attorney General’s Office to the ballot title for the Act.
“The changes made by the Attorney General’s office do not reflect the intent of the initiative, which is to end the non-selective over-harvest of Oregons native fish runs while maintaining a healthy commercial salmon fishing industry. The objective is to transition to commercial gear capable of selectively harvesting abundant hatchery fish and allowing for the release of wild fish.” 
“We are disappointed with the changes that were made by the Attorney General’s office. The over-harvest of Oregon’s native salmon runs has been ignored far too long by many leaders in Oregon. Since launching POSA it has become very clear that when the public understands the horrific and wasteful toll that gillnets take on various forms of marine life -- including endangered fish stocks -- and that a better method of harvest exits, reform is strongly supported.  CCA Oregon membership has increased sharply since launching POSA, providing another indication of the commitment to these needed reforms.”
“Banning the use of gill nets and tangle nets and using selective gear that allows for the release of wild fish is an effective, achievable way to create a sustainable commercial and recreational fishery for the citizens of Oregon. It provides a greater return on the investment that taxpayers have contributed to salmon recovery, and is consistent with Oregon’s commitment to the responsible and sustainable use of the state’s natural resources. Now more than ever, CCA members remain committed to advancing these vital reform efforts, and we intend to amend and re-file the ballot initiative to address the interpretation of the Attorney General’s office.”