Federal Agency Seeks Win in Tide Gate Dispute Affecting Salmon, Tribal Fishing Rights

The National Marine Fisheries Service is defending its decision to restrict a proposed tide gate replacement project in Washington state, citing threats to Puget Sound Chinook salmon and endangered Southern Resident killer whales. Skagit County Dike District 12 argues the agency misapplied scientific data in its biological opinion. The Swinomish Indian Tribal Community, whose fishing rights and traditions rely on salmon, was denied intervention in the case. A court ruling could impact future infrastructure projects in tribal waters.