Washington tribes, state to meet over treaty rights

Friday, September 21, 2007  

Tribal and state officials in Washington will begin formal talks on Monday to settle a treaty rights dispute.

Under an 1855 treaty, tribes have a right to half of the fish catch. But 1,000-state owned road culverts are blocking salmon from returning to their usual and accustomed places.

Last month, a federal judge ruled that the state has a duty under the treaty to ensure free passage for the fish. The tribes say that means the state must maintain and repair the culverts.

The state doesn't think the answer is so simple. At issue are cost, how many culverts are affected and how to fix the culverts.

The state wants to have a legislative proposal ready by December for the 2008 legislative session that begins in January. The judge wants monthly updates on negotiations.

Get the Story:
Clear passage for fish at stake (The Tacoma News Tribune 9/21)

Court Decision:
US v. Washington (August 22, 2007)

Related Stories:
Washington moves to settle salmon case with tribes (08/30)
Editorials: Tribes deserve healthy salmon runs (8/27)
Washington tribes win ruling in salmon case (8/23)