Removing dams won't help

Since the 1855 Treaty, the Nez Perce have been lied to and subjected to inhumane treatment by government persons. Promised schools, lumber mills and other work projects never came to fruition.

In later years, the tribe has done more to preserve fish runs than have federal establishments. Now the dams, which address flood control, irrigation needs, clean electricity, barging of produce (since rail systems to the coast are non-existent) and cruise ships, bringing paying tourists to boost our economy, are under attack.

The treaties gave natives the right to hunt and fish in their usual place. Also, access to springs, rivers and all reservation waters were to be shared by natives and settlers alike. The rivers were never under tribal control.

Dams are not responsible for salmon deprivation. Numerous birds and mammals prey on the fish. Removing dams won't solve the problems.

Tribal members no longer depend on fish for winter survival. They live and work like everyone else, own automobiles, attend sports events, go to college, become professionals, use smart phones and all available electronics.

When they need groceries, they go to stores and shop for good deals like the rest of us.

Old ways of life, spiritual beliefs, rituals, making of tools, clothing, shelters and, especially, language are all to be remembered, honored and cherished as one's culture. They are a guide as one follows the good path into the future.

Hopefully the teachings of Nez Perce elders will be long remembered by their descendents.

Flora Teachman

Kamiah

Remembering a mentor

Recently there was an obituary for Paul Huffman published in the Lewiston Tribune.

It stated that no memorial service would be held to commemorate his death, which I presume was his wish. That would be in keeping with Huffman's nature as he was a quiet, unpretentious man.

In reading of his death, I could not help but note that Huffman played an important part in my life. I first met him while I was a graduate student at Purdue University and he, a forester from Idaho, attended a forestry short course, where I was assisting.

Learning that he was a fellow Hoosier and also a graduate of Purdue, we formed a bond. He told me about Idaho and his employer Potlatch Forest Inc., and left me with an application for employment suggesting that I send it to him.

I did send the application and subsequently was offered a position with PFI. Upon arrival in Lewiston, Huffman met me and helped unload my trailer at a rented house that he had prearranged.

He was a friend, mentor and provided good counsel to me in my early days in Lewiston.

Huffman was a quiet, intelligent man, a craftsman, the kind of fellow who you wanted with you when you headed for the woods. Thanks, Paul. I owe you a debt of gratitude. Rest in peace.

Todd Maddock

Spokane