the film forum library tutorial contact

Breach Dams by Mitch Cutter Idaho Statesman, July 17, 2022

Within Kirk Williamson's June 12 article "Dams and salmon: Time to breach lower Snake River dams? Or is it a plan that won't work?", former Tri-Cities Herald Director Ken Robertson suggests that a trans-oceanic climate change problem is to blame for dismal salmon returns. Although ocean conditions are a driver of salmon and steelhead abundance, natural predation and changing ocean conditions can only cause salmon extinction if they are already at risk. Idaho is home to the best salmon habitat remaining in the lower 48.

Our high mountain rivers can act as a stronghold against the effects of climate change, if salmon are able to come home safely. This can only be achieved by providing the most favorable and consistent river migration conditions possible.

The lower Snake River dams slow water flow in hotter months, causing higher water temperatures along the salmon's crucial migratory path. Breaching these dams is a proactive approach to give these fish the advantages necessary to overcome adverse conditions. And according to Sen. Murray and Gov. Inslee's recent draft report, removing the lower Snake River dams and replacing their services is our best bet at restoring salmon to abundance.