FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 11, 2008

CONTACT: Peter Clerkin
(503) 336-4381

STEVE MARKS' STATEMENT ON SALMON SEASON CLOSURE

(Salem, OR) – Today, Steve Marks, Democratic candidate in Oregon’s 5th Congressional District, issued the following statement on the closure of the Chinook fishing season along the Oregon coast:

“The collapse of the Sacramento River fall chinook salmon, and its effects on our coastal economy are far reaching for fishermen and our coastal communities. The fact of the matter is that this closure is not a result of overfishing. The federal government must reinstitute assistance to our communities as soon as possible,” said Marks.

On Thursday, the Pacific Fishery Management Council imposed the most restrictive limits on West Coast fisheries in history.

“This decision comes as no surprise,” said Marks. “When I met with fisherman on the coast two weeks ago, they told me about the problems they face. I was reminded about how deeply our coastal fishermen care about fisheries management and the sustainability of our ocean resources. I was impressed with their keen knowledge about the science of our fisheries’ health,” continued Marks

Marks has pledged to work with the California Congressional Delegation to ensure that they understand the importance of their water management decisions on Oregon and help with needed investments in conservation that can enhance the survival of salmon.

“We are interdependent, and need to establish a stronger working relationship to ensure the survival of Pacific Coast fisheries,” noted Marks.

Marks is also concerned that not enough effort is being put into the Klamath River Basin and its health for fisheries production.

“We have our work cut out for us to ensure the health of our productive river systems all along the Pacific Coast,” he said. “My experience working on development of the Oregon Salmon Plan and other watershed restoration efforts is an example of the positive representation I will provide for coastal issues in Congress. “

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