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Breaching Snake Dams Terrible Idea by Tris McCall Tri-City Herald, July 12, 2022

Breaching the Lower Snake River dams (LSRDs) is a terrible proposal. I have read the arguments for and against breaching the dams. I conclude the proposal for breaching the dams to be unconvincing.

However, I believe a persuasive case for preserving the dams can be made on the following few simple facts: There is no guarantee and not even a good case that breaching the dams will restore fish runs to historical numbers.

But, it is guaranteed that breaching the dams will result in: A loss of reliable clean energy that does not contribute to climate destruction. A loss of efficient transportation of produce on the river (e.g. by barges versus trucks).

A loss of water flow control (e.g., water storage for drought conditions). It is a science-based fact that the planetary climate is deteriorating at a rapid pace. And little is being done to avert a climate catastrophe. We are approaching a critical decision point regarding our global climate.

It is possible-and perhaps likely that the deteriorating climate will not allow a long-term recovery of fish populations. This is a truly sad prospect that I hate to consider. But it is a real possibility that must be honestly faced. It would be a maximum of irony if we removed the dams, gave up our Northwest clean electricity and other benefits of the dams and the fish populations never significantly increase anyway. I repeat, breaching the Lower Snake River dams (LSRDs) is a terrible proposal.