Congress tackles sea lion threat to Pacific Northwest salmon populations
The US House Natural Resources Committee has scheduled three hearings this week, following the recent government shutdown. Topics will range from energy policy to wildlife management. One key session will focus on sea lions threatening salmon populations in the Pacific Northwest.
On Monday, the Water, Wildlife and Fisheries Subcommittee will examine the impact of sea lions on salmon in the region. These marine mammals gather near dams and other key areas, preying on migrating fish. Congress passed legislation in 2018 to help states and tribes cull sea lions in these hotspots.
Recent efforts to control sea lion numbers have started to work. Fewer animals now appear in problem areas, and tens of thousands of salmon have been saved as a result. The hearing will review these measures and their effectiveness so far.
Meanwhile, the Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee will hold a separate session titled Unleashing American Energy Dominance and Exploring New Frontiers. Details on witnesses for the wildlife hearing remain unavailable at this time.
The hearings come as lawmakers return to business after the shutdown. The sea lion discussion highlights ongoing conservation challenges in the Pacific Northwest. Officials will assess whether current policies are sufficient to protect salmon populations.
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