“Department staff should be leaders in this reintroduction effort,” noted Chair Marla Rae. “They already have a strong track record of working with partners in the Klamath Basin.”

Salmon disappeared from the Upper Klamath Basin in Oregon almost 100 years ago when Copco Dam in California blocked fish passage upriver.  The opportunity to re-establish anadromous runs in the Upper Klamath River Basin arose during the re-licensing process for the four main-stem hydro-electric dams operated by Pacificorp.

The Commission approved $420,894 in grants for 17 projects recommended by the Restoration and Enhancement Board. The R&E Program grants funds to restore fisheries and improve fishing opportunities throughout the state. It is funded by a $2 surcharge on fishing licenses.

The Commission amended public records requests procedures consistent with Senate Bill 554, which was adopted by the 2007 Oregon Legislature.

The Commission was briefed on draft management plans for the E.E. Wilson Wildlife Area in Monmouth and the Columbia Basin (Power City, Irrigon, Coyote Springs and Willow Creek) Wildlife Areas. ODFW will host several public meetings to present and receive comments on the plans. For EE Wilson Wildlife Area, the meetings are July 30 from 7–9 p.m. at ODFW’s Corvallis office and Aug. 12 from 7-9 p.m. at ODFW Headquarters in Salem. For the Columbia Basin Wildlife Areas plan, the meeting will be held July 29, 7-9 p.m. at Stokes Landing Senior Center in Irrigon.

Public comments on the draft plans can also be emailed to ODFW.Comments@state.or.us, faxed to 503-947-6330 or mailed to ODFW Wildlife Division, 3406 Cherry Ave NE, Salem, OR 97302. Comments will be accepted through the Oct. 10, 2008 Commission meeting in Salem but should be received by Sept. 12, 2008 to allow for full review and consideration by ODFW staff.

The Commission is the policy-making body for fish and wildlife issues in the state. The seven-member panel meets monthly. The next meeting is Aug. 8 in Salem, where topics include preliminary 2009 sport fishing regulations and adoption of the 2008-09 game bird hunting regulations. Agenda item exhibits may be requested by calling the ODFW Director’s Office at 800-720-6339 or 503-947-6044.