Carlson 4 Idaho Supporters,
Several Legislators met with the Idaho Outfitters and Guides Association last week about the dangerous water levels in Hells Canyon during peak operating season. I received the following information below from the organization this week regarding House Joint Memorial No. 9.
Hells Canyon Memorial
Hells Canyon Dam Complex is currently being considered for re-licensing to Idaho Power by the Federal Energy and Regularity Commission (FERC).
Current operations allows for Idaho Power during the summer months to lower the flow of water released from Hells Canyon Dam to 6500cfs or lower, and to increase the flow to more than 22,000cfs within hours every day.
This fluctuation in water levels is harmful to the water temperatures, fisheries, safe navigation of the river, and local tourism enjoying the benefits of the Hells Canyon Nation Recreation Area (HCNRA).
FERC is expected to issue the draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS) this month, with Comments on draft SEIS presumptively due in April. Once the license to Operate these dams is issued, it will largely determine what the next 50 years of recreation in Hells Canyon looks like.
We are requesting the legislature of Idaho speak on behalf of the citizens of Idaho to recommend to the Federal Energy and Regulatory Commission (FERC) that the flow of the Snake River below Hells Canyon Dam be maintained at a minimum of 8500cfs from May 15 – October 1 for the benefit of all Idaho residents and the recreation industry.
History of Hells Canyon National Recreation Area (HCNRA)
Commercial power boats have navigated the Snake River through what is now the HCNR since the age of steamboats in the mid-nineteenth century. Commercial jet boats have been used on the Snake River since the early 1960s. Commercial non-motorized use at Hells Canyon began to be popular when surplus rafts from World War II made river running more available and inexpensive. Float outfitter permits and launches have been regulated by the National Forest Service since the 1970s. These days, tens-of-thousands of recreational users (more than 50,000 just in peak season) enjoy this landmark gem of Idaho every year.
What we hope to Accomplish
We are requesting the legislature show its support for the [modest] needs of recreationalists, sportsmen, outfitters and guides, and resident fish and wildlife populations in form of a House Joint Memorial 9, which…
“…recommends to FERC that the flows of the Snake River at and below Hells Canyon Dam be maintained at a minimum of 8500 CFS from May 15 to October 1 for the benefit of all Idaho residents. Additionally, the Idaho Legislature recognizes and supports the relicensing process of the Hells Canyon Complex for the benefits of electricity for the citizens of Idaho.”
A Joint Memorial does not carry the fore of law; it is a tool used by state legislators to officially voice concerns, positions, or requests on various issues that may fall under federal jurisdiction or require federal action.
House Joint Memorial 9 sponsored by Rep Charlie Shepherd
This Joint Memorial will send a message to Congress and the US President that the Idaho Legislature is in support.
One of the outfitters has informed me, “Not a drop more water from farmers is needed. The exact same amount of power will be generated or ran through the turbines. The result of a compromise will save recreation opportunities for all in Hells Canyon. The water flow was great for 15 years before the Biden Administration. We aren't asking for anything new, they are asking for even lower flow capabilities!”
What You Can Do
Call your legislators and let them know you would support this resolution. I want you to know, I fully support this move and appreciate Rep Shepherd working with the IOGA to present this Joint Memorial. Please help me support the effort! We need recreation to continue and keep the fish habitat intact in Hells Canyon for many years to come.
Senator Cindy Carlson
Thank you for the information!