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Hydropower: Protecting the Snake River Dams for the Benefit of Idaho by Daniel Hall EnergyPortal.eu, July 23, 2023

Hydropower plays a vital role in providing reliable and clean energy in the Northwest, particularly for the people of Idaho. While the debate surrounding the Snake River dams has largely focused on their benefits for Washington state, it is important to recognize the significant impact these dams have on Idaho and why they must be protected.

Support for the Snake River dams is widespread, including from Idaho officials and trade groups. The Idaho Farm Bureau Federation acknowledges the dams' contribution to affordable and environmentally friendly hydroelectric power, enabling farmers to export their products globally. In 2021, the Idaho Legislature passed a resolution affirming its support for the economic development benefits offered by the Port of Lewiston and the Columbia-Snake River System.

The Port of Lewiston's general manager, Scott Corbitt, highlights the importance of the dams to Idaho's economy and way of life. The clearwater and Snake rivers, along with the pool created by the Lower Snake River Dams, have provided opportunities for the Lewis Clark Valley and sustain an economy for around 65,000 people.

During a recent congressional field hearing, Todd Myers, the environmental director for the Washington Policy Center, emphasized the detrimental consequences of removing the dams. The estimated cost of $35 billion or more to destroy the dams would not only be counterproductive for the climate, energy reliability, and the economy but also misallocate resources that could have positive impacts across the region, including the preservation of salmon populations.

The Columbia River System Operations Record of Decision, the only comprehensive and scientific public process, affirms that dam breaching on the lower Snake River is completely unnecessary and unwarranted. It was undertaken over several years by both Democrat and Republican administrations, providing clear evidence against the removal of the dams.

Importantly, the Snake River dams were authorized by Congress, and only Congress has the authority to remove them. Fortunately, many congressional members representing areas impacted by the dams are working to protect the economic and environmental benefits they provide.

The Northwest Energy Security Act, introduced by Senator Jim Risch, in collaboration with other congressional members, is a crucial part of the effort to safeguard the Snake River dams. This legislation explicitly secures the energy, transportation, agriculture, and irrigation benefits that the dams offer.

Protecting the Snake River dams and other federal water infrastructure is of paramount importance to both Washington and Idaho. By working together, we can ensure the continued strength of our dams for the benefit of our region.