"We have achieved a fair balance between the needs of the fish, and the needs of industry, while providing for long-term protection of habitat essential for rebuilding salmon species," said Terry Garcia, assistant secretary of commerce for oceans and atmosphere. "Environmental protections remain intact in this agreement."

"We are comfortable that the Headwaters agreement promotes healthy stream-side habitat through measures that provide coho salmon protections from hill slope sediment damage and road building. What's more, the agreement includes provisions to stringently monitor Pacific Lumber Company compliance with restrictions on timber harvest, and substantial penalties in the event of violations," said Garcia.