COMMENTARY FROM ISSU STAFF
January 2010
Many have asked the question lately, “I haven’t heard much about ISSU …. is the organization still in existence”? Or, you’ve commented “because I have not heard much from ISSU and the fight to save our fish, I am not willing to make any contribution”. Both points are valid and a concern to those of us that are still working very hard to save Idaho’s wild steelhead and salmon.
There are many reasons why ISSU appears to be “in a state of flux”. As you know, ISSU is a member of the plaintiff coalition in the federal case currently in front of Judge Redden. We’re patiently waiting for a ruling that will support the facts that the current Biological Opinion put forth by the federal defendants (NOAA and others) is illegal and will not do anything to keep our listed runs of endangered wild salmon from going extinct. Much legal wrangling has taken place in the last year. Most recently, the Judge has asked for and received additional information from the Feds. Judge Redden has yet to rule on the case, and it appears likely that it may be March before we see and hear any kind of a decision. ISSU is somewhat at fault for just standing by and just waiting for this opinion, rather than being more proactive in educating and asking for support.
Another reason for ISSU’s lack of exposure and / or less than desirable visible levels of activity is the state of the economy in Idaho. The expenses that are paid for our legal team, insurance, banking, office supplies, some travel to attend meetings and hearings, web site, newsletters, and other expenses are a drain on the limited financial resources we have. While these are, admittedly, difficult times, what is really needed to continue “the fight” are more membership renewals, donations / contributions, fund-raising activities, and personal commitments of our members.
About a year ago, it appeared likely that ISSU might have to shut down as an organization. Those that still cared about ISSU and saw the value of continuing the fight to save our fish supported the idea of “partnering” with Idaho Rivers United. Discussions were held and eventually a decision to combine our efforts was established. ISSU moved into space provided by IRU, who offered their support, office, and staff to ISSU. To date the discussions, planning, collaboration, and combined efforts to help each other’s organization for the sake of our fish has proven to be a very good experience, and I, for one, feel that we, together, will be able to continue the fight.
ISSU is Still “alive and well”, and the efforts to save our fish are, in some small ways, still going on. What is essential to continue the fight that has been going on for 25 plus years is the support of new and existing members. Don’t give up on this battle! ISSU members in years past worked too hard in supporting wild fish from going extinct. Please keep in mind that it was ISSU and others who forced the Feds through court action to spill critical water for spring and early summer smolt migration. Without this, we most likely would not have seen the runs we are currently experiencing and will be seeing this coming summer.
ISSU has been a very successful organization in the past, and we believe we can still be a force going forward, so that you will enjoy taking your kids or grandkids fishing now and in years to come. Help the ISSU Board of Directors in educating all Idahoans and the Federal government that our fish do not need to go extinct. We can have sustainable wild fish runs! Transportation of goods and products, irrigation water, power generation, Indian rights, etc. are all politically-tinged issues, but there are viable solutions - it just takes getting all interested parties together and agreeing that we can find solutions and then working to that end.
Help ISSU continue our efforts, and remember “extinction is not an option”. See you on the river!
