04/28/05 More spill more costs? Boise is growing

Environmental and fishing interests are asking for increased spill over the federal dams of the Columbia-Lower Snake River system this summer as a way, in their opinion, to increase survival rates for juvenile fish migrating downstream. But an analyst for the Northwest Power and Conservation Council says their request, if granted by a federal judge, could mean an additional loss of revenue around $100 million dollars, caused by power generation during the peak summer months. The request for increased summer spill goes against N.O.A.A. Fisheries' updated biological opinion for operation of the Columbia-Lower Snake federal dams. The updated bio-op calls for no spill at three of the four Lower Snake dams, and McNary Dam on the Columbia River. For years, when it comes to the major Northwest cities, residents of Boise from a size, stature, and recognition standpoint may have felt they have taken a back seat to bigger communities such as Seattle, Portland, Spokane, and Tacoma. Not any longer. With a recent study showing a population of around 208,000 people, Boise has surpassed Spokane and Tacoma to become the third largest city in the region. So how are Boise's citizens reacting to the news? Their feelings are mixed. Many like the cultural and economic diversity displayed in their growing population. But some of the age old grumbles about larger cities & not enough parking and a more congested traffic system & are starting to be heard as well. Now with today's Food Forethought, here's Susan Allen. ALLEN: This April, Pacific Northwest salmon made the cover of the New York Times, but the press wasn't too positive. You see New York 's grand culinary establishments, along with the top gourmet and organics markets like Wild Edibles and Dean and DeLuca are serving up Fresh Wild Northwest Salmon, but something is fishy, the salmon isn't in season, what they were selling is really farm raised. Needless to day there has been a lot of back peddling and finger pointing at vendors, and now consumer groups are crying foul. Wild Salmon, especially from our mighty Columbia River is available with quotas only during certain seasons. Wild salmon is coveted for flavor and health benefits and in New York City can command up to $30.00 a pound. To protect consumers a new country of origin labeling has been established to trace fish. It is a bit ironic though isn't it that the chefs and markets so quick to tout organic and sustainable practices don't see any conflict in promoting the continuous consumption of a native species many believe could well be endangered. I'm Susan Allen and this is Food Forethought.