SEATTLE (AP) — The U.S. and Canada announced on Thursday that they have reached an agreement to update the six-decade-old treaty governing the Columbia River, one of North America’s largest rivers. The updated provisions aim to improve flood control, irrigation, and hydropower generation, as well as enhance collaboration between the two countries.
After six years of negotiations, the “agreement in principle” outlines a framework for modernizing the Columbia River Treaty. It includes measures for the U.S. to retain more power generated by its dams, establish better cooperation between the Bonneville Power Administration and Canadian utilities, and compensate Canada for reservoir capacity needed for flood control, with payments starting at $37.6 million per year.
President Joe Biden stated, “After 60 years, the Treaty needs updating to reflect our changing climate and the evolving needs of the communities that rely on this important waterway.”
However, environmental groups expressed disappointment that the deal did not address concerns for imperiled salmon and steelhead populations in the Columbia River basin. They argue that the treaty should also prioritize river health and salmon restoration, in addition to flood control and hydropower generation.
The Columbia River Treaty was established following a devastating flood in 1948, which led to the construction of dams in the U.S. and Canada. While the treaty has provided benefits for flood prevention and hydropower, there have been environmental concerns, particularly regarding salmon migration.
Under the new agreement, adjustments will be made to the amount of hydropower the U.S. delivers to Canada, resulting in cost savings and reduced reliance on fossil fuels for energy generation. U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell and Jim Risch welcomed the agreement as a positive step.
Indigenous tribes have advocated for a more natural flow of the Columbia River to support ecosystem needs and cultural values. The agreement establishes a tribal-led body to provide recommendations on how to improve treaty operations in alignment with these priorities.
While the agreement represents progress, some conservationists believe more needs to be done to address the impact of the treaty on salmon populations. They argue for increased water releases from Canada to support salmon migration.
Chief Keith Crow of the Syilx Okanagan Nation expressed hope that the agreement would pave the way for future generations to harvest salmon in the Columbia River region. However, he emphasized the need for continued efforts to address past and ongoing impacts on lands, waters, and people.
Despite the challenges, the agreement marks a significant step towards collaboration between the U.S. and Canada to ensure the sustainable management of the Columbia River and its resources.
