ID HJM002

Idaho legislature supports Governor and Attorney General actions to oppose introduction of salmon or steelhead above Hells Canyon Dam to protect state sovereignty, water rights, and property rights against Oregon's efforts.

Any relicensing of the Hells Canyon Complex must comply with Idaho State Water Plan policies, recognize no salmon/steelhead populations can be introduced above the dam, and honor the 1980 Settlement Agreement terms.

Snake River supplies water to 76% of Idaho's population and irrigates over 3 million acres; hydropower from the mid-Snake and Hells Canyon provides low-cost electricity and economic development to southern Idaho.

Idaho Water Resource Board established in 1964 asserts state sovereignty over water resources; state law prohibits introduction of federally listed species without state legislature and executive branch consent.

Legislature opposes any federal agency action, including FERC licensing provisions, that would result in reintroduction or introduction of salmon or steelhead into Idaho waters above Hells Canyon Dam.