The Nation - News from July 6, 1988

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Director Frank Dunkle has relieved Pacific regional director Rolf L. Wallenstrom of his duties for at least 30 days in what agency sources say is political punishment. Wallenstrom has been assigned to a new 30-day post in which he will help formulate a plan to address agricultural irrigation drainage water contamination. Fish and Wildlife spokesman Sam Marler denied any political motivation for the move. Agency sources said Wallenstrom, based in Portland, Ore., was under pressure from Dunkle for failing to support the naming of agency deputy director Steve Robinson as the next Pacific region director. Wallenstrom, popular with environmentalists, was also reportedly under fire for his position on California wildlife issues.