A Balanced View on Removing the Snake River Dams
This article in High Country News underscores the importance and the benefits of changing our approach on the dam breaching discussion.
For a long time the discussion about the impact of removing the Lower Snake River dams on barging and grain farmers have dominated objections to restore the Snake River and the wild Chinook salmon population, a keystone species. If we change our mindset - we can have the best of both worlds.
Although the article lags on some facts about rail and transportation, it takes a different and welcoming approach. We, as partners of one4salmon, would welcome the opportunity to continue the discussion with Mr. Flory and other stakeholders who represent farmers’ concerns and share our information in the hopes of reaching a beneficial conclusion for wild salmon. We believe we can all work as one to restore our region’s wild salmon and ecosystem. #one4salmon
Benefits of Restoring Wild Salmon
Ecological Importance: Salmon are a keystone species, vital for the health of the ecosystem. Their decline impacts numerous other species and the overall ecological balance.
Cultural Significance: For tribes like the Nez Perce, salmon are integral to their diet, culture, and economy. The Treaty of 1855 promised them the right to fish in their usual and accustomed places, making salmon restoration a matter of fulfilling treaty rights and preserving cultural heritage.
Economic Impact: Restoring salmon populations can revive commercial and recreational fishing industries, which are significant sources of income and employment.
Benefits of Mitigating the Impacts of Dam Removal
Mitigating the impacts of dam removal can help address the concerns of stakeholders who rely on the dams:
Economic Transition: Proposals like Congressman Mike Simpson's $33.5 billion framework aim to support stakeholders by providing financial aid and infrastructure improvements. This includes $3.6 billion for transportation improvements and subsidies to offset increased costs.
Transportation Solutions: Enhancements to the grain transportation network, such as new rail lines, can help farmers transition from barge to rail transport. This can maintain the flow of goods and mitigate economic disruptions.
Cost Efficiency: Addressing the true costs of maintaining the dams and exploring more efficient ways to spend public funds can lead to long-term economic benefits. For instance, the current subsidies for barge transport could be reallocated to support more sustainable and cost-effective transportation methods.
Changing our mindset to approach the topic in a balanced way with open discussions and a mindset to improve the environment and the state of the wild salmon will benefit us in multiple ways.
