Resources

We value keeping up with the latest information and science on hydropower and salmon. There are many factors to consider when looking at the issues our rivers face, and they change at a rapid pace. By relying on trustworthy sources, it is our belief that we can strike a balance among all sides that achieves the best possible outcome for the resource. Below you will find links to fact sheets, files, and websites that offer great information on the hydropower system and salmon.

Our Materials

Below, you’ll find a combination of fact sheets and materials we’ve produced, studies from independent research firms to conduct, and public comments with referenced sources. These materials are essential to being able to help educate the public and policymakers about the benefits of our hydropower system.

  • 1 Fact Sheets

    2022 Northwest RiverPartners Fast Facts Download Now

    Our annual Fast Facts provide readily available information on a variety of the topics we work with. Available in digital format, this fact sheet is an excellent resource to study up on or have on hand to provide to those seeking to learn more about Northwest hydro.


    Lower Snake River Dam Fast Facts Download Now

    This one-page digital flier provides a brief, Fast Facts style format covering the lower Snake River dams. Included topics range from salmon, to the value of the dams, and the consequences of breaching them according to the 2020 CRSO EIS.


    Salmon of the Snake River Download Now

    An examination of the threats to endangered and threatened salmon in the Pacific Northwest, particularly the four populations listed for the Snake River. This fact sheet also addresses claims made about the impact of the lower Snake River dams on these fish.

  • 2 Studies & White Papers

    Bonneville Power Administration’s Lower Snake River Dams Replacement Study Download Now

    E3 was contracted by the Bonneville Power Administration to conduct an independent study of the value of the lower Snake River dams to the Northwest power system.


    Lower Snake River Dams Power Supply Replacement Analysis Download Now

    This study prepared by Energy GPS Consulting evaluates the power supply-related financial and CO2 emissions impacts of breaching the four Federal dams on the lower Snake River.


    Regional & National Impacts Triggered by Breaching Lower Snake River DamsDownload Now

    A study by FCS Group, commissioned by the Pacific Northwest Waterways Association, examining the impact of lower Snake River dam breaching from a transportation perspective.


    An Examination of Northwest Energy Coalition February 2022 White Paper on Replacing the Lower Snake River Dams Download Now

    We have prepared the following analysis of the Northwest Energy Coalition February 2022 white paper to support science-based solutions that drive good public policy.


    Dollars & Sense: Addressing False Assumptions about the Energy & Economics of the Lower Snake Dams Download Now

    Federal reports show the lower Snake River dams are some of the most cost effective dams in the Federal Columbia River Power System. However, some anti-dam advocates repeatedly claim the dams lose money and are unnecessary. This white paper examines those assumptions and conclusions.


    Dollars & Sense II: An Examination of Reservoir Methane Claims Download Now

    Energy experts indicate that existing hydroelectric projects have among the lowest carbon footprint of any electric generating resource. However, some anti-dam advocates claim the lower Snake River dams are a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions compared to other energy resources. This white paper examines those assumptions and conclusions.


    EnergyGPS Review of the 2018 NWEC Lower Snake River Dams Power Replacement Study Download Now

    In April of 2018, the Northwest Energy Coalition released the Lower Snake River Dams Power Replacement Study. After release, Northwest RiverPartners contracted Energy GPS to evaluate the reasonableness of the study’s findings and conclusions.

  • 3 Public Comment Submissions

    Northwest RiverPartners Murray-Inslee Stakeholder Process Comments Download Now


    Northwest RiverPartners CRSO DEIS Written Comments Download Now


    Northwest RiverPartners EPA Total Maximum Daily Load for Temperature in the Columbia and Lower Snake Rivers Comments Download Now

Our Sources

The sources found here represent the best available science on topics that range from Northwest hydropower and renewable energy to environmental issues that include salmon recovery and the endangered Southern Resident orca population that feed on them. We believe in transparency and want to make sure everyone has access to the same information we rely on.

Other Resources

The organizations and federal agencies listed below are true subject matter experts on the issues we cover. If you still find yourself with unanswered questions after reviewing the materials and links found on this page, we encourage you to visit some of the pages listed here to learn more.

Bonneville Power Admin
Bonneville Power Administration

BPA and its partners operate the Federal Columbia River Power System (FCRPS). Financed through the rates of northwest electric customers, BPA markets electricity, and works to protect and enhance environmental, fish, and wildlife values while keeping electric infrastructure maintained and reliable.

Www.Bpa.Gov
Columbia River DART (Data Access in Real Time)

Purpose is to provide accurate anadromous juvenile and adult fish counts at the Columbia and Snake River dams.

Www.Cbr.Washington.Edu/Dart
NW Power and Conservation Council

To ensure, with public participation, an affordable and reliable energy system while enhancing fish and wildlife in the Columbia River Basin. Was the original creator of, and every 5 years amends, the Federal Columbia River Power System’s Fish and Wildlife Program.

Www.Nwcouncil.Org
other-resources
The Federal Caucus

Ten federal agencies working for endangered salmon and steelhead in the Columbia River Basin. Their website offers current and historic information on the work of the Caucus to recover ESA-Listed Columbia/Snake River Basin salmon and steelhead.

Www.Salmonrecovery.Gov
US Army Corps of Engineers

Seeks to ensure that USACE owned and operated dams do not present unacceptable risks to people, property, or the environment, with the emphasis on people. Northwest focus on flood risk management, dam safety, dredging for navigation, and river recreation.

Www.Usace.Army.Mil