Comparison of Contemporary and Heritage Fish Consumption Rates in the Columbia River Basin
Author:
Barbara L. Harper & Deward E. Walker Jr
Date Published:
3/2015
Description:
Fish consumption rates (e.g., pounds or grams per day (gpd), or meals per week) are used in a variety of regulatory processes such as setting water quality standards. Many Native American tribes eat more fish than the general population, especially in areas such as the Columbia River Basin, which was renowned for abundant fish. However, contemporary fish consumption rates are lower (i.e., they have been suppressed) than baseline heritage rates due to contamination, habitat degradation, loss of access, and legal and physical assault on tribal fishing. Nevertheless, traditional lifestyles are recognized and protected by intergovernmental treaties and/or aboriginal rights. The understanding of heritage rates is gaining importance as tribal cultures are reinvigorated, watersheds are restored, and understanding and respect for tribal lifeways improves.We compare the different methods used to derive Columbia Basin contemporary
and heritage fish consumption rates.We highlight the need for caution in selecting a fish consumption rate until the derivation and context of the rate have been considered.
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