SALEM, Ore — If you are interested in discussing ocean commercial salmon seasons in state waters then plan to attend meetings March 21 in Coos Bay and March 22 in Pacific City.
Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife managers will discuss areas, quotas, minimum size limits and other changes regarding commercial chinook “bubble fisheries” along the Oregon coast. Bubble fisheries are located at the mouth of a river and target healthy stocks specific to that river.
The meetings will provide opportunities for the public to gather information about state commercial fishery options being considered. The March 21 Coos Bay meeting will begin at noon at the Charleston Marina RV Park, 63402 Kingfisher Road in Charleston, and will focus on mid and south coast bubble fisheries from the Umpqua to Chetco River.
The March 22 Pacific City meeting will start at 9 a.m. at the Pacific Coast Church, 35230 Brooten Road, and focus on north Oregon coast bubble fisheries from the Nehalem to the Siuslaw River.
The meetings are a result of strong support for continued commercial chinook fisheries in state waters in 2007 when federal waters are closed. The goal is to target healthy fall chinook stocks as was done last year in the “bubble fisheries” off the Nehalem/Tillamook, Nestucca, Yaquina, Alsea, Siuslaw, Umpqua, Coos, and Rogue rivers.
“Forecasts for 2007 suggest we could have similar fisheries this year without impacting river fisheries and meeting escapement goals,” said Curt Melcher, ODFW Assistant Fish Division Administrator.
The mission of the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife is to protect and enhance Oregon's fish and wildlife and their habitats for use and enjoyment by present and future generations. The agency consists of the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission, a commission-appointed director and a statewide staff of approximately 950 permanent employees. Headquartered in Salem, ODFW has regional offices in Clackamas, Roseburg, Bend, and La Grande with ten district offices located throughout the state. For additional information, please visit www.dfw.state.or.us.
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