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Commentaries and editorials

Fresh Take on Dams

by Nicole Xiao
Moscow-Pullman Daily News, January 3, 2023

Graphic: Grain tonnage through locks operated by Army Corps of Engineers, Walla Walla District (1990-2016). The four lower Snake River dams in Idaho have long been a source of controversy and debate. As the country duo Florida Georgia Line suggests in "Cruise," it may be time to roll our windows down and take a fresh look at the issue.

In the song, the band sings about falling in love with a girl and wanting to "cruise down a back road" with her. Similarly, breaching the dams could allow us to take a new path towards a more sustainable and healthy future for the Snake River and its surroundings. The dams have been shown to have negative effects on fish populations, including the endangered salmon, as well as on the local economy and recreational opportunities.

Hubbard and Kelley croon, "Baby you're a song / You make me wanna roll my windows down and cruise." Maybe it's time for us to listen to the call of nature and consider breaching the dams. As the lyrics say, "Every little farm town with you / In this brand new Chevy with a lift kit / Would look a hell lot better with you up in it." The Snake River and its environment are a vital part of Idaho's communities and culture. By breaching the dams, we can ensure a brighter future for all.

It's not just about the fish, either. Jason Aldean sings about the joys of driving with the windows down and the summer breeze in his hair. Removing the dams would open up new recreational opportunities for boaters and fishermen, as well as providing more scenic views for all to enjoy.

As the country singers say, "Baby you're a song / You make me wanna roll my windows down and cruise." It's time for us to take the journey towards a more sustainable and enjoyable future for the Snake River and all who depend on it. Let's roll down our windows and embrace the change that breaching the dams could bring.

Related Pages:
Can Trains Save Salmon? by Bill Moyer, Spokesman-Review, 10/29/22


Nicole Xiao, Moscow
Fresh Take on Dams
Moscow-Pullman Daily News, January 3, 2023

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