In April 2025, I had the opportunity to travel to Washington, D.C. with Youth Salmon Protectors (YSP), staff from the Idaho Conservation League, and other YSP members from the Nimiipuu (Nez Perce Tribe) chapter to advocate for the removal of the lower Snake River dams. As someone deeply involved in salmon recovery work, this trip was a powerful reminder of the impact youth voices can have when brought directly to people in power. 
During our time in D.C., we met with staffers from a range of Congressional offices across Idaho, Washington, and Oregon—including Senators Murray, Merkley, Wyden, Crapo, and Risch, as well as Representatives Schrier, Fulcher, and Simpson. These meetings gave us the opportunity to shape the narrative being discussed on the Hill. Some offices, like Senator Murray’s, were clear in their support for sustainable practices but did not give us much insight into future plans for Snake River salmon recovery. Her staff spoke passionately about defending NOAA and the Endangered Species Act from recent attacks and encouraged us to continue sharing the economic and cultural importance of salmon across the Northwest.
When we met with Senators Risch and Crapo, much of the conversation centered on their support for a dangerous anti-salmon bill. While the Senators expressed opposition to dam removal, they also raised questions about how to replace the dams’ energy and transportation services—highlighting the value of showing up and engaging in these conversations with decision-makers who have not traditionally been on our side. Our presence opens dialogue, provokes new questions, and reminds decision-makers what’s at stake. Since returning home, we have continued the conversation about their support for the anti-salmon bill—joining with others across the Northwest to create a sign-on letter addressed to the bill’s supporters.
Many staffers noted that Idaho’s state leadership felt “left out” of the Resilient Columbia Basin Agreement (RCBA), a bold step toward salmon recovery that the Biden Administration, states, and Tribes agreed to. We pushed back, urging them to join the conversation rather than remain on the sidelines. The need for unity across the Northwest is urgent, and the RCBA offers a chance to collaborate. We repeatedly heard that what makes a difference is not just policy, but stories—real people showing up, again and again.
One of the most meaningful moments for me came from hearing other youth discuss lamprey and their role in Nez Perce culture while in the meeting with Representative Simpson’s office. These conversations and perspectives were a necessary reminder of what’s truly at stake. Salmon and lamprey aren’t just species to be counted—they’re central to the identity, health, and sovereignty of Tribes across the region. Hearing this history shared in a space of political power grounded me in why our voices, especially those of tribal youth must be heard and valued because the fight to restore the lower Snake River must be led by those most connected to it.
This trip was personally powerful and motivating. Being surrounded by other passionate young people reminded me that I’m not alone—and that our voices, especially when united, can shift the narrative. We returned home with new relationships, new strategies, and new information. I’m grateful for the opportunity to have participated.
As high school students, we’re often told to wait our turn. But the truth is, salmon don’t have time to wait—and neither do we. Whether from D.C., our state capitals, or our own communities, we can all take action for a free-flowing Snake River and a future where salmon still return home.