Green Dams, Blue Skies Campaign

There continues to be an on-going effort from several special interest groups calling for the removal of the four dams on the lower Snake River. Dam removal is counter-productive to Northwest businesses. Hydropower, one of the cleanest, most reliable sources of power, provides over 85% of Benton PUD power at a low cost. Show your support of the dams – Add your name to the growing list of supporters by going to www.nwriverpartners.org.

Poll illuminates attitudes on dams, energy and salmon

A recent public opinion poll of 600 registered voters in Washington, Oregon and Idaho shows the public appreciates hydro as a renewable resource for the region and doesn’t buy removing dams. The poll was commissioned by Northwest RiverPartners to access attitudes toward the Northwest dams, energy and salmon issues. Respondents opposed removing the Lower Snake River dams on a six to one basis. 

Hydropower was the very clear favorite (58%) when asked which of the six sources of energy was the most practical for the Northwest to rely on the most. Wind power finished a distant second at 21%, nuclear was third at just 10%, followed by solar at 8%, with both natural gas fired and coal fired plants at 2% or less.

When asked about ways to help salmon and steelhead in the Northwest, respondents put improving fish passage at the dams and reducing or banning commercial and sport fishing high on the list (90% and 75% respectively). Proposals for breaching or removing dams scored low at 21%.

While the poll is positive news, Benton PUD, working with Northwest RiverPartners, will continue to update and educated our customers and opinion leaders on benefits and improvements made to the hydro system.  For more information about the poll and Northwest RiverPartners go to www.nwriverpartners.org.