We know that wild salmon are teetering on the edge of extinction, and that dam removal is the only option to bring them back to abundance. We also know that the first step to salmon recovery is replacing all of the services provided by these dams to ensure that nobody is left behind. A dangerous proposed bill, HR 626/S 182 (ironically titled the Northwest Energy Security Act), undermines the decades of work already done and prohibits any new progress made on salmon recovery. It isn’t just about the fish; the damage from this bill goes beyond salmon. HR 626/S 182 threatens our future, locking us into outdated infrastructure and ignoring bipartisan efforts to find a solution. This legislation not only blocks action but blocks understanding of how to develop a better future for us all—a future with reliable power, transportation, recreation opportunities, and thriving ecosystems.
Youth Salmon Protectors—a coalition of young people across the Northwest dedicated to saving wild salmon and steelhead—has collaborated with the Next Gen Salmon Collective to create a sign-on letter urging elected officials to oppose the bill. Our letter makes it clear:
“We want more than survival—we want a thriving Northwest with resilient ecosystems, clean energy, and strong communities… Despite the overwhelming evidence, some members of Congress continue to obstruct progress.”
HR 626/S 182 undermines the 2023 Resilient Columbia Basin Agreement, a commitment made between the White House, federal agencies, states, Tribes, and conservation groups. This agreement outlines a comprehensive plan for salmon recovery, energy replacement, and transportation, ensuring every stakeholder is accounted for. In contrast, the bill ignores countless studies that have already been done, halting progress before it begins.
That’s why youth from across the region are taking action for our future. This summer, Youth Salmon Protectors and our allied organizations are scheduling meetings with Congressional offices in Idaho, Oregon, and Washington to deliver the letter and make it clear that decisions made today are shaping the Northwest we will soon inherit, so we deserve a seat at the table.
“As youth of the Pacific Northwest, we will see the consequences of decisions our leaders make today. Either we will see a future with abundant salmon and thriving communities, or we will be faced with the unacceptable outcome of salmon extinction.”
We know what is at stake here. We also know the power we hold as a coalition of youth. Young people have always been at the forefront of change, and the salmon issue is no different. The next generation of decision makers are showing up, unafraid to speak their minds, and united with a passion to see a free flowing Snake River and a thriving Northwest.
You can help us keep the pressure on by adding your name to the sign-on letter, joining the fight for abundant salmon populations and a comprehensive plan for our future.