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More than 20 federal lawmakers from California are urging President Biden’s administration to declare a fishery disaster after the closure of the state’s salmon season for the second consecutive year. The Pacific Fishery Management Council voted to close the commercial Chinook salmon fishery along the coast from Oregon to Mexico, expected to take effect in May. Governor Newsom has requested a fishery disaster declaration, estimating losses of over $47 million. The closures have devastated local fishers and businesses, prompting calls for swift federal relief. Critics argue that previous aid packages were insufficient. Newsom has initiated a “Salmon Strategy for a Hotter, Drier Future” while the California Department of Fish and Wildlife awarded grants for habitat restoration. However, the Golden State Salmon Association blames Newsom’s policies for exacerbating the crisis, citing environmental concerns and water management issues.

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