Government fishery managers took steps Friday toward an unprecedented total ban on salmon fishing this year off the California and Oregon, a move that would hammer beleaguered harbors and deprive the West of a culinary and cultural prize.
A CHINOOK SHORTAGE
The move by the Pacific Fishery Management Council came amid historically low returns of Chinook salmon to the Sacramento River, the backbone of the West Coast's fishing industry.
WHAT'S THE PROBLEM?
Blame has focused on poor ocean conditions, potentially linked to global warming, but also pollution, predators and increased water exports out of the environmentally fragile Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta.
WHY IT BITES
A ban could devastate many coastal communities that have yet to recover from downturns in fishing and timber. It also will drive up prices for the Chinook, also known as king salmon. (Salmon lovers, take note: Supplies of farm-raised fish and sockeye from Alaska are expected to remain plentiful in markets and restaurants.)
THE FINAL DECISION
The ban is one of three options approved by the council Friday on how to deal with the crisis. A final recommendation will be made to federal regulators next month in Seattle.
NEWS SERVICES
