We have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to restore one of the greatest salmon river systems of the world–the Columbia and the Snake­–by removing four outdated and expensive dams on the lower Snake River.

Restoring this system will be no small task, and if we’re going to succeed, we’ll need your help. The federal agencies that own and operate dams on the Columbia and Snake Rivers are accepting public comment about future operations and salmon restoration through February 7th, 2017. As a whitewater enthusiast, your voice is important in the process! Your comment will help ensure that these agencies fully analyze dam removal on the lower Snake as an option, and that the recreation benefits are fully considered.

Why now?  The comment period is part of the first phase of a court-ordered review under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) of salmon restoration alternatives in the Columbia and Snake Rivers. Last spring, the U.S. District Court in Portland, OR issued a strongly-worded opinion that found the agencies’ most recent plan inadequate and illegal - in violation of both the Endangered Species Act and NEPA. It’s the 5th plan to be invalidated by 3 judges across twenty years. This is our opportunity to ensure that the agencies get it right this time.

Why is it important to remove the lower Snake River dams? Unlocking the Snake would restore access for wild salmon to thousands of miles of valuable cold-water habitat, including in tributaries like the Lochsa, Selway and Salmon Rivers. This will address the root of the problem for salmon in the Basin, rather than emphasizing management actions that restrict boater access. Additionally, freeing the Snake will restore opportunities for river trips on 140 miles of the lower river. In 2002, the US Army Corps of Engineers estimated that if the dams were removed, demand for paddlesports would be for over 300,000 user days, enhancing the local economy. (Thanks to Save Our Wild Salmon for the salmon photo!)

For more information about the broader issues related to removing these dams, visit American Whitewater's Snake River Project page.

Now is the time to FREE THE SNAKE to save the salmon, reconnect communities to the river, and bring about the biggest river restoration in history!  Submit your comment below.