Southwest Montana News

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Matt Rosendale (MT-02) has voiced his opposition to the potential removal of four dams along the Lower Snake River. The Biden Administration is considering enacting a federal settlement with Pacific Northwest tribes that could lead to the removal of these essential structures.

In a statement, Rep. Rosendale emphasized the significance of the dams to the people of Montana and the entire Northwest. He stated, "This issue is not just important; it is a slap in the face to the hardworking people of Montana and the entire Northwest. The secretive mediation surrounding the litigation and potential removal of these dams is an outright betrayal of the citizens who depend on this infrastructure."

The Congressman highlighted the various benefits provided by the dams, including affordable and reliable electricity, irrigation for agricultural purposes, flood control to protect local communities, and transportation of products for export. He also emphasized the importance of fish passage for the protection of fisheries.

Rep. Rosendale expressed concern over the billions of dollars that have been invested in the improvement of these dams and questioned the rationale behind considering their destruction. He called it "insanity" to even entertain the idea of removing these essential structures.

The Congressman's remarks can be watched [HERE](link).

The potential removal of the dams has raised significant concerns. Over three million electricity customers, who rely on the hydropower produced by these dams, were not adequately represented throughout the secretive process. Despite strong salmon returns in recent years, the Administration seems to disregard the resilience of these species.

The impact of removing irrigation capabilities from the river would directly affect farms that contribute over $2 billion to the economy annually and provide more than 10,000 agriculture jobs. The cost of replacing these dams through alternative transportation modes is projected to be up to $860 million annually until 2045, with an estimated total cost of $18 billion for the region.

Furthermore, the removal of these dams could lead to a significant increase in energy costs. Over 100,000 Montanans relying on the Bonneville Power Administration could experience a potential 50% increase in their energy bills. This could also jeopardize the essential baseload power for many Montana Co-Ops, especially during harsh winter months when temperatures remain below freezing for extended periods.

The potential removal of the four dams along the Lower Snake River has garnered strong opposition from Rep. Matt Rosendale and raised concerns about the economic and environmental implications. The decision-making process and lack of representation for the electricity customers and stakeholders have been criticized. As the debate continues, the fate of these essential structures hangs in the balance.

For additional details, please follow this link: https://rosendale.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=731