OR Gov. Brown Calls for Restoration of Lower Snake River and Salmon Recovery Partnership with WA
Oregon Governor Kate Brown sent a letter to Washington Governor Jay Inslee on February 11th emphasizing removal of the Lower Snake River dams as the necessary long-term solution for salmon recovery. The letter praised Gov. Inslee’s efforts for collaborative, solutions-based discussions to salmon recovery, and encouraged partnership between WA and OR in taking steps toward a restored Lower Snake River.
Gov. Brown reiterated that the best available science is clear that restoring the Lower Snake River is the single most effective option for recovering wild salmon as it is likely to result in a two-to-three fold increase in survival. The letter also emphasized that the energy and agricultural needs of communities can be met without the four Lower Snake River dams. Brown encouraged Inslee to partner with Oregon to develop alternatives for services provided by the dams for shipping, irrigation, and reserve power. Oregon is prepared to be an effective leader and partner in salmon recovery and taking steps toward restoring the Lower Snake River.
Idaho Rivers United applauds Gov. Brown’s leadership, emphasis on cooperative efforts, request for partnership, and courage in taking a strong stance on salmon recovery and Lower Snake River dams. Science-based decisions, cooperative leadership, and a focus on solutions are essential for the success of salmon recovery in the Pacific Northwest.
Idaho has been at the forefront of salmon recovery, with Congressman Mike Simpson calling for science-based solutions to the salmon crisis and leading the federal campaign to recover salmon. We ask that the rest of Idaho’s elected officials partner with Governor Brown by agreeing to work together toward long-term salmon recovery through the restoration of the Lower Snake River. Idaho needs our congressional and state policymakers to work together on lasting solutions rather than temporary measures with limited impact. Low salmon and steelhead returns that have impacted Idahoans and depressed river community economies across the state highlight the urgency of this issue. The time to act is now.
Read Governor Brown’s letter: CLICK HERE