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In addition to the Bevan Plan's specific reconunendations. it provides a 

 framework or process for which future decisions can be made on a timely basis using 

 the best available science. It will lead to better coordinated management of Columbia 

 River fishery managers. We believe this measure is desperately needed. 



Will the Bevan Plan Lead to Recovery? 



Snake River threatened salmon are confronted with hazards throughout their life 

 cycle (attachment 4). Natural and human caused events are pushing declines to 

 extinction. The Columbia and Snake River basins are again experiencing a drought 

 with Snake River flows only 50 percent of normal and Columbia River fiows of 70 

 percent of normal. Also, poor ocean conditions are causing lower survival to both the 

 threatened Snake River salmon and other runs from Oregon and Washington coastal 

 streams (attachment 5). 



However, despite these factors the CRA believes that we should pursue the 

 Bevan Plan. It is the best "blueprint for survival" for these threatened salmon. 



Next Step for Bevan Plan 



As the Bevan Team acknowledges, much is still unknown regarding salmon and 

 additional research is necessary. Therefore, implementation will likely require 

 "adaptive management" allowing for mid-course corrections. The recovery team 

 anticipated this action in its plan. As an example, CRA members believe the team was 

 incorrect by recommending habitat protection standards developed by PACFISH, 

 FEMAT. and the Eastside Forest Scientific Society Panel. We believe a more cost- 

 effective approach for stream protection, one supported by user groups, is the new 

 Oregon Forest Practices Act. We will pursue this approach in the plan's Habitat 

 subcommittee. 



Economics is an important element in the plan. What is the plan's cost? What 

 elements provide a greater biological benefit for a given cost then other elements? 

 Can the region afford the plan? As of this date these questions cannot be answered as 

 cost and benefits estimates have not been provided. The CRA has advocated to the 

 team that a cost-effectiveness analysis be performed on the plan (see Attachment 6 for 

 previously prepared analysis). This information is required as it will allow the region 

 to pursue the highest value salmon recovery measures first. 



A critical next step to this plan and required for successful implementation is 

 regional acceptability and support. This support is required by the Administration, 



