Chief
03-30-2007, 04:32 PM
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2003642140_websealions29m.html?syndication=rss
PORTLAND — Two Washington congressmen introduced a bill Thursday to allow killing of the more aggressive sea lions that prey on Columbia River salmon, which just now are heading upriver to spawn.
"Unfortunately, the news this year isn't any better than last; California sea lions are already setting their sights on this year's salmon run," said Rep. Brian Baird, D-Vancouver.
The sea lions, protected by the 1972 Marine Mammal Protection Act, gather at the base of Bonneville Dam to wait for and feed on the migrating salmon.
Wildlife officials have tried harassing the sea lions with large firecrackers and rubber bullets, but with little effect.
"After trying every trick in the book, this is the only option left to stop the sea lions," said Rep. Doc Hastings, R-Pasco.
Baird and Hastings represent districts that border the Columbia. Rep. Norm Dicks, D-Bremerton, and Republican Rep. Greg Walden of Oregon are co-sponsors.
**SCHNIPP**
They can't get this done too soon....I just wish they would allow a season, or award a bounty; so the locals can have a chance for a little payback...
I think there is some money to be made selling chances to shoot a sea lion at Bonneville....say, five bucks a shot??
;D
PORTLAND — Two Washington congressmen introduced a bill Thursday to allow killing of the more aggressive sea lions that prey on Columbia River salmon, which just now are heading upriver to spawn.
"Unfortunately, the news this year isn't any better than last; California sea lions are already setting their sights on this year's salmon run," said Rep. Brian Baird, D-Vancouver.
The sea lions, protected by the 1972 Marine Mammal Protection Act, gather at the base of Bonneville Dam to wait for and feed on the migrating salmon.
Wildlife officials have tried harassing the sea lions with large firecrackers and rubber bullets, but with little effect.
"After trying every trick in the book, this is the only option left to stop the sea lions," said Rep. Doc Hastings, R-Pasco.
Baird and Hastings represent districts that border the Columbia. Rep. Norm Dicks, D-Bremerton, and Republican Rep. Greg Walden of Oregon are co-sponsors.
**SCHNIPP**
They can't get this done too soon....I just wish they would allow a season, or award a bounty; so the locals can have a chance for a little payback...
I think there is some money to be made selling chances to shoot a sea lion at Bonneville....say, five bucks a shot??
;D