"Conservationists Urge Court to Shield Oregon's Endangered Salmon from Dams"

Oregon and conservation groups are urging a federal court to implement protective measures for endangered salmon against dam impacts as hydropower litigation continues, emphasizing ecological preservation.

On October 15, Oregon and conservation groups filed a lawsuit asking Judge Michael Simon to mandate that dams spill water 24 hours a day to protect endangered salmon and steelhead.
The request targets the Army Corps of Engineers, the Bureau of Reclamation, and the Bonneville Power Administration, highlighting the ongoing ecological crisis in the Columbia River drainage basin.
Conservationists, including Earthjustice and the Nez Perce, argue that current dam operations significantly threaten the survival of endangered species like salmon and rainbow trout in the Columbia River.

Why It Matters

This legal push reflects a growing urgency to balance hydropower needs with environmental conservation, as the decline of endangered salmon species could disrupt regional ecosystems and fishing industries.