Sea Lions Must Go?

Protected California sea lions on the Columbia River are facing a possible death sentence as state wildlife reps from Washington and Oregon look to protect migrating salmon populations. Selective "lethal removal" is being proposed for sea lions who are repeat offenders and continually outsmart and outmaneuver efforts to deter them from gorging on the salmon population at fish ladders during the salmon spawning run. The effects of hydroelectric dams, man-made pollution and fertilizer run-offs on the salmon population muddy the whole issue. The sea lions are estimated to consume about 3% of the salmon moving upriver on the Columbia. The Humane Society has taken the position that this approach would make it look like something was being done without tackling the larger issues. MYWAY STORY

This is a classic manifestation of man's competition for resources, in this case salmon, where-in the more valuable commercial species is favored over a predator. I think we have to work harder to protect and create predator populations wherever possible even at the expense of commercial interests. A complete and healthy foodchain is an indispensilbe component of our eco-system. Economic issues must be heeded but in balance with nature.
g