Renewed legal battle ramps up over Columbia Basin dams and salmon

A renewed legal battle has emerged over the operation of eight dams in the Columbia River Basin, with conservationists and the state of Oregon seeking to protect endangered salmon and steelhead. They filed for a preliminary injunction to lower reservoir levels and increase water spills starting in March 2026, claiming that current practices threaten fish survival. The Nez Perce Tribe and the state of Washington support these efforts, citing alarming declines in salmon populations. Opponents, including the Public Power Council, argue that the proposed changes are scientifically unproven and could undermine electricity reliability in the Pacific Northwest. This litigation follows a multi-year agreement reached in 2023 under the Biden administration that aimed to restore fish populations but was abandoned by the Trump administration in June.

The federal hydropower system supplies about 28% of the region's electricity while contributing to the decline of 13 salmon and steelhead populations. Additionally, the litigation seeks emergency conservation measures to enhance fish survival, underscoring the broader ecological impact. The outcome of this case could influence future policies on hydropower and conservation in the Columbia River Basin.