Summary of Bill S 3119
Bill 115 s 3119, also known as the Endangered Salmon Predation Prevention Act, is a piece of legislation currently being considered by the US Congress. The main purpose of this bill is to address the issue of predation on endangered salmon populations in the Pacific Northwest.
The bill specifically targets the predation of salmon by sea lions and other marine mammals in the Columbia River and its tributaries. These predators have been identified as a significant threat to the survival of endangered salmon species in the region.
If passed, the Endangered Salmon Predation Prevention Act would authorize the Secretary of Commerce to issue permits to certain entities, such as Indian tribes and state fish and wildlife agencies, to lethally remove sea lions that are preying on salmon in the Columbia River and its tributaries. This would allow for the targeted removal of specific individuals or groups of sea lions that are posing a threat to the salmon population.
The bill also includes provisions for monitoring and reporting on the effectiveness of these removal efforts, as well as requirements for public notice and comment before permits are issued. Additionally, the legislation includes measures to ensure that the removal of sea lions is conducted in a humane and responsible manner.
Overall, the Endangered Salmon Predation Prevention Act aims to address the ongoing threat of predation on endangered salmon populations in the Pacific Northwest by providing a targeted and regulated approach to managing sea lion predation in the Columbia River and its tributaries.