March 2008 Issue

Oops! This is an update to the newsletter sent March 19. The 3rd news item, "Discussion of Proposed Fish and Wildlife..." was added.

Scientists Describe Latest Research on Climate Change, Its Possible Effects on Salmon, and How Beavers Help Restore Streams

John Ferguson, Bill Peterson, Rich Zabel, and Tim Beechie of the NOAA Fisheries Science Center briefed the Council on the current research on the potential effects of climate change on salmon, and on the use of beavers to restore incised streams. See presentation (large file: 9mb PDF).

Update on the Fish and Wildlife Program Amendment Process

Patty O'Toole, program implementation manager, and Lynn Palensky, program planning and special projects coordinator, gave an update (120k PDF) on the amendment process for the Council's Columbia River Basin Fish and Wildlife Program. They reviewed the public hearing schedule, which will begin following the release of the draft program, currently scheduled for mid-August.

Discussion of Proposed Fish and Wildlife Project Selection and Review Process

The proposed approach to project selection and review focuses on long-term funding commitments, basinwide projects, and projects that support subbasin plan priorities. Some of the key principles include allowing flexibility to incorporate Bonneville's ESA requirements, recognizing different project types, focusing on program performance, and increasing transparency and accountability.
    Council members had questions about timing, decisionmaking, and funding. They also expressed the need to receive input from all sponsors, to clearly define outcomes, and to define the role of the states. Staff was directed to refine the proposed process for consideration at the Council's next meeting in April. Read more (180k PDF).

Columbia River Basin Water Supply Looks Good

Jim Ruff, manager of mainstem passage and river operations for the Council, presented an update (280k PDF) on the water supply forecast for the Columbia River Basin. Overall, he noted that conditions for most parts of the basin are looking good to very good, thanks to cooler temperatures that have helped to retain the snowpack.