Both Republicans and Democrats have initiated studies looking at removing the lower Snake River dams. One of the more high-profile studies is being supported by Washington Governor Jay Inslee and Washington’s senior senator Patty Murray. Dan Newhouse, chair of the Western Caucus, said multiple studies have demonstrated the many benefits of those dams for irrigation, flood mitigation, electricity generation and much more. He cited a recent study by the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers that supported the continuous use of the dams, indicating that the dams and fish can coexist.

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“To continue the push for more studies just seems to be unproductive, particularly in light of the energy crisis that we’re facing today.”

Newhouse added billions of tax dollars have been spent to improve fish passage with much success. When it comes to the argument of fish populations, Newhouse said there are 76 species of salmon in the west that are being watched. And he noted rivers across the west, both dammed and undammed are reporting similar population issues. Newhouse said any issues are not found with the lower Snake River dams, but rather in the Pacific, and the highly polluted Puget Sound.

But he added while those in favor of removing the dams have once again become vocal, they are not the only ones.

“Rest assured that the efforts from those of us that want to preserve these very important pieces of infrastructure in the Pacific Northwest, our voices are getting louder and louder as well,” Newhouse continued.

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