Thirty years ago the Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission was established to manage the natural resources the Tulalip, Stillaguamish and Sauk Suiattle Indian tribes needed to be able to continue their traditions.  According to an article on the commission in the Everett Herald, "More than 30 years later, the commission is a regional leader in environmental research and activism."

The commission released its annual report this week.  The highlights of the report are:

"Habitat mapping: Less than 20 percent of the region's seabed has been mapped with regard to marine species and habitats. A project between the commission and other agencies will result in a comprehensive Geographical Information System database that could be used to produce maps of geological features, habitat hazards and other information.

"Water resource surveys: Through a partnership with the U.S. Geological Survey, tribes are surveying the region's waterways to determine how development and climate change are affecting fresh and salt water and resources including salmon and other fish.

"Salmon and steelhead inventory: This project will collect data to track the condition of fish habitat over time to provide a blueprint for future restoration efforts.

"Hunting agreements: Local tribes are negotiating for regional agreements to hunt deer, elk, bear and other wildlife. The agreements will establish hunting seasons and enforcement."

For the full report, check here.