Judge Rules for Salmon Over Trump Administration Dams

A federal judge in Oregon has mandated changes to hydropower operations that have significantly harmed salmon populations. The ruling specifically addresses eight dams and reservoirs along the Columbia and Snake Rivers, which have posed severe obstacles for migrating fish. Federal agencies had argued that altering operations would jeopardize power reliability.

Decades of legal battles over the dams' impact were temporarily paused in 2021 to pursue a collaborative solution. This led to a landmark salmon recovery plan in late 2023, with the federal government committing over $1 billion for salmon support and clean energy replacements for hydropower.

However, the Trump administration withdrew from this agreement, labeling it "radical environmentalism," which prompted a return to litigation. In a decisive ruling, US District Court Judge Michael Simon criticized the administration's past actions as avoidance and manipulation rather than genuine problem-solving.

The Department of the Interior had previously acknowledged the harm caused by the dams to the river and Native American Tribes. The construction of these dams in the early 20th century devastated riparian ecosystems, flooded tribal sites, and disrupted cultural practices and food sources.

Once a global leader in salmon production, the Columbia River basin now faces severe declines, with seven of its original sixteen salmon and steelhead stocks listed under the Endangered Species Act, and four already extinct. Judge Simon noted that the critical battle for these species has largely been fought in the courts.

The judge's order largely maintains the previous year's reservoir and flow levels, with minor increases. This decision was celebrated by advocacy groups who see it as crucial relief to prevent salmon extinction in the region.