U.S. Agencies Renew Environmental Review of Columbia River Dams

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Bureau of Reclamation will revise their 2020 environmental study on the Columbia and Snake River dams to include new data indicating that breaching the lower Snake River dams could significantly aid salmon and steelhead populations. This decision follows a legal agreement that paused litigation from environmental groups, tribes, and states regarding the dams' operations. The new review is part of a broader initiative, influenced by recent studies and agreements, aimed at restoring endangered fish species while balancing hydropower needs. Stakeholders, including tribal partners and conservation groups, will contribute input to inform the updated supplemental environmental impact statement (SEIS). Advocates argue that a comprehensive plan is essential to prevent extinction and ensure the recovery of native fisheries in the region. The agencies' commitment to reassess the impact of the dams reflects growing concerns about the efficacy of previous management strategies.