Dear Roy Elicker:

I was horrified to hear about the sea lion executions that are currently taking place at Oregon's Bonneville Dam. While I understand the need for control over the Chinook salmon population, there are more sustainable ways to manage it rather than killing off innocent animals.

The Bonneville Dam itself is part of the problem. The dam's implementation has interfered greatly with the sea lions' habitat and hunting grounds. The situation surrounding the dwindling salmon population can largely be attributed to decisions made by humans— decisions that are now wreaking havoc on the ecosystem. It's simply not the sea lions' fault that the dam has severely limited their food source.

We cannot continue to allow these murders to take place. I am writing to ask that you address this situation as soon as possible, and work with your colleagues at the Department of Fish and Wildlife to find a solution that does not involve euthanizing innocent sea lions— or any other animal for that matter. It's important, especially in these times of environmental struggle, that we take all possible steps to preserve life on our planet.

Thank you for your time.