Times Colonist
Published: Friday, March 30, 2007
Re: "Seals or salmon: It's a tough choice," editorial, March 29.

As a scientist, I find it hard to believe that culling harbour seals is the only remedy left to helping the ailing Puntledge River chinook population.

We need to be looking at why the chinook stocks are in peril to begin with.

One is the large hydroelectric dam situated right in the way of historic spawning habitat.

Why don't we give readers an opportunity to understand all the facts surrounding the controversial issue of culling marine mammals?

The seals are not the reason why chinook populations have decreased.

Channel diversions, loss of habitat and reduced tributary access are the real culprits.

Leanne Shapka,

Victoria.

© Times Colonist (Victoria) 2007