Chapter 21. Native American Tribal Treaty Rights and Fisheries Co-Management in the U.S. Pacific Northwest

Abstract

This chapter outlines the historical basis for the treaty rights of western Washington Tribes as an example of how co-management is successfully being implemented in the Pacific Northwest. The legal history and management status of these Tribes support the extension of proprietary rights to natural resources for other indigenous peoples around the world. The chapter exemplifies how tribal representatives, with their culture and history so indelibly linked to natural resources, have a unique perspective to bring to the management process. The fishery resources management framework in the Pacific Northwest is unique and has evolved from conflict to cooperation. The experience of the Pacific Northwest Tribes with affirming and implementing their treaty fishing rights can support and serve as an example for other indigenous peoples with similar interests and circumstances. Keywords:American tribal treaty rights; fishery resources management; Pacific Northwest; United States