ODFW release – The Fish and Wildlife Commission was updated on the Rogue Spring Chinook Salmon Conservation Plan at their meeting in Salem. The plan was adopted in 2007 and outlined a number of strategies to increase returns of naturally produced spring Chinook to the Rogue River. The 10-year average showed an increase from 7,596 in 2007 to 9,613 fish in 2017. The comprehensive assessment evaluated progress and determined whether and what changes might be appropriate. No changes were recommended. Note that a petition to amend existing regulations for naturally produced spring Chinook salmon in the Rogue River was withdrawn by the petitioners before the meeting, so was not considered by the Commission. The Commission also: Adopted annual updates to the schedule of damages used in assessing commercial fishing violations. Adopted fish ticket, dressed fish, and other housekeeping rule amendments for commercial fisheries in the Columbia River and Select Areas. The Commission is the policy-making body for fish and wildlife issues in Oregon. Its next meeting is scheduled for Feb. 7-8 in Portland.
