They need to look at the 20+ years of Ballard Locks data collected since the 350K number chosen. The data shows a weak correlation between parent numbers and returning offspring numbers (correlation coefficient = .28) In other words, other factors dominate.

Also, this is not a native run of fish, so what is the big deal?? Even if you screwed up totally and wiped it out, you could just re-introduce them

Barnettm,

It took a long time after the introduction in the 1930s-1940s for the run to reach animpressive and fishable size. I wouldn't want to chance having to wait that long again. Plus, these days that kind of fish transfer would be virtually impossible to get a permit for. Nonetheless, the run could be managed for a sustainable fishery instead of the maximum possible fishery that only occurs every few years.

Sg

I pass through the locks everyday to go to work and just started to see them... I saw the first one just this morning walking from Ballard to Magnolia, then this afternoon i saw a few rolling around and in the ladder

If it means the tribes get a chance to put the nets in for sockeye and incidental Kings I wouldn't be surprised to see the escarpment lowered to give the sporties a one day opener with a 1 fish limit. I hope it doesn't happen but it wouldn't surprise me at all. The rumors have started and if we see a couple 100K make it through I wouldn't bet against it

Wow.