Mark -  Articles in US and Canadian fisheries journals, over the past decade, indicate that Atlantic salmon, and specific runs of CA, and OR salmon are declining. While you are correct that predation from seals and sea lions (particularly in Puget Sound and the Columbia River) are being looked at as a major factor in limiting local Chinook numbers, within studies reporting on non-Orca marine mammal predation, researchers have suggested that a significant percentage of chinook smolts in Puget Sound are in a weakened condition — from toxic chemicals, storm water run-off, disease or malnutrition, which makes them especially vulnerable to predation long before they return as adults. Changing oceanic conditions have negatively impacted salmon numbers along the whole of the Pacific coast. Culling Harbor seals and sea lions could improve local salmon numbers, but major problems would remain. Improving salmon habitat remains a valid and necessary part of any Orca restoration plan.