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Senate passes bill to bolster salmon recovery program in Coos County
Summary
The Oregon Senate passed Senate Bill 221 A to continue and strengthen a salmon enhancement program tied to the Coquille River, citing invasive smallmouth bass and partnership work with the Coquille Indian Tribe and Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife.
The Oregon Senate on April 1 passed Senate Bill 221 A, a measure to continue and bolster the Salmon and Trout Enhancement Program that supports salmon incubation and restoration efforts in Coos County.
The bill’s sponsor, Senator David Brock Smith, said the program — created in 1981 and run in partnership with the Coquille Indian Tribe and the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife — helps incubate fall Chinook and other salmonids and is aimed at countering invasive smallmouth bass that prey on juvenile salmon. "As you look at the floor of the Senate this morning, and see our beautiful salmon as an emblem of this chamber, please reflect on that when you support Senate Bill 221," Brock Smith said.
The bill’s backers described the measure as a targeted continuation of an existing program that supports incubation nursery work on the Coquille River to revive and stabilize runs. Senator Gerard also spoke in support, calling the approach a compromise with tribes and noting the program uses wild fish genetics rather than traditional hatchery methods.
Supporters said the Coquille River program and the tribe’s management agreement with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife are central to regional recovery because nonnative smallmouth bass are devouring smolt and undermining natural runs. The sponsor warned of continued opposition testimony on earlier amendment versions but urged members to vote for the dash‑5 amendment and final passage.
On final passage the Senate declared the bill passed after a roll call that showed the measure had received a constitutional majority. The clerk recorded the motion carried; the Senate announced that Senate Bill 221 A "having received a constitutional majority is declared passed." The reading indicated four members were excused.
Senate Bill 221 A will continue the existing Salmon and Trout Enhancement Program activities in Coos County and support tribal and state partnerships for incubation nursery work.
Votes at a glance: Senate Bill 221 A — declared passed; recorded as having received a constitutional majority; excused: Frederick, Star, Thatcher, Woods; roll announced "26 ayes."
