What Now? Should the Dams Be Removed?

We say Yes! It’s about DAM time!

Though the construction of the Dams had a crucial part in developing the infrastructure and economies of Snake River communities throughout history, the necessity to remove the dams is becoming more undeniable as salmon conditions continue to decline.

The primary argument to maintain the dams highlights the economic benefits that the dams provide. Arguments describe the renewable energy that is provided to over 800,000 homes in surrounding areas. However, the markets for energy efficiency is changing; solar power and wind power are beginning to take over the renewable energy playing field. The efficiency of hydro-energy is becoming less and less supported overtime. Indeed, the dams provide irrigation capabilities that are heavily relied upon in these areas of rich agriculture. However, the amount of investments that are placed to maintain the dams and attempt to conserve salmon population without removing the dams has proved to be very inefficient. The dams provided necessary infrastructure for development of the past, however, the future is changing, and the presence of these dams are more problematic than beneficial at this point.

Many argue that the economic value of these dams require their continuation. This may be true, but if the salmon residing in this river face irreversible extinction, salmon will not just become a distant memory that is easily forgotten; their presence is crucial to entire ecosystems and communities. If these primary organisms disappear, it will cause ripple effects to the entire food chain, as many other species rely on salmon as a primary food source. Furthermore, the extinction of salmon will cause irreversible damage to the cultural customs of Native Americans. As mentioned before, salmon are also a crucial part to economic returns; without them, many will suffer economic losses.

The argument that the local economies will suffer following the removal of dams is not sufficient enough given the evolving technologies and economic values happening today.

In conclusion, the Snake River Salmon must be protected, as their presence in this river will continue to benefit entire ecosystems, communities, and economic markets. Meanwhile, the benefits of the dams can and will be replaced by more efficient and less damaging technology in our evolving society.

What can you do to support the Snake River Dam removal?

SIGN THE PETITION!

https://www.change.org/p/barack-obama-crack-down-on-deadbeat-dams

Only 1,757 signatures are needed to motivate the change needed to happen!
If you are interested in seeking more information on this controversy, please also take the time to watch DamNation, an informative documentary highlighting the needed removal of the Snake River Dams.

http://damnationfilm.com

Thank you for visiting our blog regarding the Snake River Dam removal,

Angelique Duckworth

Artesia Hubbard

and

Ben Graf