This proposal has the chance to be rolled into a larger infrastructure bill. With our region’s clout in Congress (Murray, Cantwell, Wyden & DeFazio) we have the ability to move an infrastructure investment package forward in 2021.

This proposal will lay the groundwork for the largest river and salmon restoration in history.

Congressman Simpson has held over 300 meetings with all interests–tribes, ports, growers, members of Congress and lots of others. His office has done their homework and we think his proposal will reflect that.

While we don’t know everything that is in the final package, we must acknowledge that this is an opportunity that we should initially support and applaud.

It is an important and historic step in the right direction.

IOGA (through our members) has remained committed to only restore salmon by way of LSRD retirement if we have a comprehensive solution. This very well might be that solution.

By working together with Northwest elected officials and stakeholders, we can shape the infrastructure investments that this proposal will likely outline. As this door opens, we need to encourage all interested parties to engage and step forward.

We need members of Congress and other elected officials to engage in this effort to create comprehensive infrastructure legislation that:

• Restores wild salmon and steelhead via Removal of the Lower 4 Snake River Dams (including creation of a Lower Snake River Recreation Area).

• Strengthens our region’s energy and agricultural sectors

• Ensures a reliable, affordable clean energy future

• Upholds commitments made with Northwest tribes