August 31, 2022
Earlier this month, the Biden Administration announced an extension by granting a stay in the long-standing litigation regarding the 14 federally operated dams in the Columbia River Basin and their impact on salmon and steelhead through August 31, 2023. The dispute involves the United States, the State of Oregon, the Nez Perce Tribe, the Spokane Tribe of Indians, the Coeur d'Alene Tribe, and a coalition of plaintiffs led by the National Wildlife Federation.
This announcement is important for continuing the work being done to find a solution to the issues affecting the communities, economy, and resources throughout the region. Developing a long-term plan to restore salmon, steelhead, and other native fish populations back to healthy and abundant is essential for supporting Tribes, small communities, and the regional economy.
Allowing conversations to continue affords more opportunities to honor commitments to Tribes while ensuring that solutions are found to replace the uses and the needs that the Columbia River Basin meets for the Pacific Northwest.
