Media Items Archive -

Contacts:
SELC: Eric Hilt, 615-622-1199 or ehilt@selctn.org
American Rivers: Hawk Hammer, 202-243-7075 or hhammer@americanrivers.org
American Whitewater: Kevin Colburn, 828-712-4825 or kevin@americanwhitewater.org

ERWIN, Tenn. — This week, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers sent a letter to CSX Transportation, ordering the rail company to stop mining the Nolichucky River for rock and fill. The letter comes after the Southern Environmental Law Center, on behalf of American Rivers and American Whitewater, sued the Army Corps and two other federal agencies for approving CSX’s harmful mining practices in the Nolichucky River Gorge.

In the letter, the Army Corps states that the company is prohibited from performing “any excavation or dredging of material from the Nolichucky River or its tributaries in both Tennessee and North Carolina” until the Corps gets new approvals in place. Importantly, the letter does not prevent CSX from rebuilding its rail line in a responsible and less destructive way.

“From the beginning, we’ve said that CSX should be able to rebuild its rail line in the Nolichucky River Gorge, it just needs to do so in a way that follows the law and doesn’t put the river and the people that depend on it at risk. We commend the Army Corps for stepping in and putting a stop to CSX’s extremely harmful practices,” Patrick Hunter, Managing Attorney of SELC’s Asheville Office, said. “This is a major win for the Nolichucky River as well as nearby and downstream communities.”

In October, CSX began mining the Nolichucky’s riverbed in Eastern Tennessee and Western North Carolina while repairing a rail line that was washed away during Hurricane Helene. Mining the river for rock and fill is much more destructive than trucking materials in from upland quarries, which is standard practice. The unnecessary mining was inflicting irreparable damage to the river, threatening local businesses, and impacting flooding risks for communities downstream.

“After losing so much in recent months it’s been really hard to watch the damage being done to the Nolichucky. These recent actions by the agencies give us hope that the remaining five miles of the Gorge will be spared from cobble mining and other unnecessary impacts. It’s encouraging news for a special place that means so much to so many people,” said Kevin Colburn, National Stewardship Director for American Whitewater.

In the weeks since CSX’s mining practices were discovered, community members, state and local officials, and nearby businesses expressed significant concerns about the impact the company’s mining could have on the river and the communities that rely on it. The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation also sent a notice of violation to CSX this week and ordered the company to stop excavation of the river.

“CSX crossed a line that would have jeopardized the health and integrity of the Nolichucky River. We are heartened to see the Army Corps set this boundary and ensure future generations will still be able to enjoy the scenic and natural beauty of the Gorge, while also allowing a responsible rebuilding effort to occur,” said Erin McCombs, Southeast conservation director for American Rivers. “Our nation’s rivers deserve utmost care as a vital resource that we all share.”

The Nolichucky River Gorge is a one-of-a-kind natural wonder, described by the Forest Service as “one of the deepest, most spectacular gorges in the eastern United States.” It’s stunning beauty and world-class whitewater rapids attract thousands of visitors from all over the region, making the river a key part of the area’s local economies.

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The Southern Environmental Law Center is one of the nation’s most powerful defenders of the environment, rooted in the South. With a long track record, SELC takes on the toughest environmental challenges in court, in government, and in our communities to protect our region’s air, water, climate, wildlife, lands, and people. Nonprofit and nonpartisan, the organization has a staff of 200, including more than 120 legal and policy experts, and is headquartered in Charlottesville, Va., with offices in Asheville, Atlanta, Birmingham, Chapel Hill, Charleston, Nashville, Richmond, and Washington, D.C. southernenvironment.org

American Rivers is championing a national effort to protect and restore all rivers, from remote mountain streams to urban waterways. Healthy rivers provide people and nature with clean, abundant water and natural habitat. For 50 years, American Rivers staff, supporters, and partners have shared a common belief: Life Depends on Rivers. For more information, please visit www.AmericanRivers.org.

American Whitewater is a national non-profit 501(c)(3) river conservation organization founded in 1954, with approximately 50,000 supporters, 7,000 dues-paying members, and 80 locally based affiliate clubs, representing whitewater enthusiasts across the nation. American Whitewater’s mission is to protect and restore America’s whitewater rivers and to enhance opportunities to enjoy them safely. American Whitewater is based in Western North Carolina, where the organization has helped establish public river access, secure conservation outcomes, and restore flows from numerous dams.

For Immediate Release

November 21, 2024

Contact
Hawk Hammer, National Communications and Media Director, Hhammer@americanrivers.org

Washington D.C., – American Rivers and a group of 131 local, state and national partners have submitted a letter to Congressional leaders asking them to urgently pass emergency disaster relief funding for communities impacted by Hurricane Helene and Milton and support key federal programs that aim to improve public safety, reduce flooding, and restore rivers.

“River communities impacted by Hurricane Helene and Milton need our help now. Congress must ensure recovery funding is reliable, accessible, and flexible to meet the challenges ahead as we rebuild with resilience in mind,” said Erin McCombs, Southeast Conservation Director with American Rivers. “These areas need immediate resources to clear harmful storm pollution from streams and funding to assess and remove defunct or damaged dams as these communities work to recover. Every day these resources are delayed comes at a cost.”

These major storms caused failure or damage to dozens of dams within the region, making funding to assess their condition important to remove unneeded and unwanted dams and repair other structures to ensure the safety of communities when the next storm comes.

The letter included the support of businesses, community associations, public health professionals, agricultural conservation districts, farm workers, anglers, and environmental justice groups.

Additional Funding Requests and Recommendations from the Letter include:

$100 million for Army Corps’ Environmental Infrastructure Program to assess dams;
$35 million for EPA’s 319 program to support the implementation of greywater systems;
$42 million to AmeriCorps to support regional stream debris removal teams;
$35 million for Forest Services’ Dam Engineering and Management Program to support the assessment and removal of dams within their boundaries;
$50 million for the National Fish Passage Program to facilitate fish migration;
$24 million for the National Dam Safety Program’s State Assistance Program to provide states financial assistance to strengthen dam safety.

Recommended Policy Solutions to Prepare for Future Storms

Congress should address the White House administration request to forgive all or some of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) debt to ensure policyholders and disaster survivors receive the assistance necessary after a flood.
Congress needs to reauthorize FEMA’s National Dam Safety Program and eliminate barriers that often prevent communities from accessing assistance.
Congress should require FEMA and HUD to better integrate programs for affordable housing with healthy floodplain management to meet the housing needs of families and communities who need to relocate to safer ground.

About American Rivers

American Rivers is championing a national effort to protect and restore all rivers, from remote mountain streams to urban waterways. Healthy rivers provide people and nature with clean, abundant water and natural habitat. For 50 years, American Rivers staff, supporters, and partners have shared a common belief: Life Depends on Rivers. For more information, please visit www.AmericanRivers.org

Contacts
SELC: Eric Hilt, 615-622-1199 or ehilt@selctn.org
American Rivers: Erin McCombs, 828-649-7887 or emccombs@americanrivers.org
American Whitewater: Kevin Colburn, 828-712-4825 or kevin@americanwhitewater.org

ERWIN, Tenn. — The Southern Environmental Law Center, on behalf of American Rivers and American Whitewater, sued several federal agencies on Monday, saying the agencies violated federal law by allowing a rail company to mine the Nolichucky River in East Tennessee.

Recently CSX Transportation, a major railroad company, began mining the Nolichucky’s riverbed for rock while repairing a rail line that was washed away during Hurricane Helene. Trucking in rock from upland quarries is standard practice and much less destructive. Instead, CSX brought heavy machinery into the Nolichucky River Gorge and began removing rock and fill directly from the riverbed. This dangerous and unnecessary method does irreparable harm to the waterway, hurts local businesses that rely on the river, and increases flooding risks for communities downstream.

“We want CSX to be able to quickly rebuild its damaged rail lines, but it needs to do so in a responsible way that follows the law and protects our communities,” Patrick Hunter, Managing Attorney of SELC’s Asheville office, said. “As we recover from Helene, we need to work together to rebuild resiliently. Instead, CSX is making shortsighted decisions that will worsen flooding problems for people living downstream and do permanent damage to this incredible river.”

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and U.S. Forest Service have continued to ignore the damage CSX’s mining is doing to the river and the long-term economic and flooding problems it creates for nearby communities. The agencies authorized the work in the Nolichucky River Gorge without holding CSX to any limitations to protect the river and downstream communities. The agencies’ refusal to hold CSX accountable is a violation of federal law.

“We have been pleading with the federal agencies to step in and put protections in place, but they have not acted so far,” said Kevin Colburn, National Stewardship Director for American Whitewater. “CSX’s reckless mining tactics put the remarkable characteristics of the Nolichucky Gorge, and the river itself, at risk. We cannot sit by and simply watch that happen.”

The Nolichucky River inspires pride and has been enjoyed by people in East Tennessee and Western North Carolina for generations. The Nolichucky also attracts thousands of tourists from around the region to experience the river’s natural beauty and world-class whitewater rapids, making the river a key part of local economies in the area. Tourism generates millions of dollars in visitor spending each year in Unicoi County. If the Nolichucky River is irreparably damaged due to CSX’s shortsighted mining practice, those visitors—and their dollars—will go someplace else.

The rugged and pristine nature of the Nolichucky River Gorge led to it being designated as a Wild and Scenic “study” river by Congress in the 1970s. The Forest Service, who described the area as “one of the deepest, most spectacular gorges in the eastern United States,” has also recommended that the waterway be included in the nation’s Wild and Scenic River system.

“This river, with its clean water and abundant fish and wildlife, is a treasure for everyone who lives in the region,” Erin McCombs, Southeast Conservation Director for American Rivers said. “It isn’t fair for one company to put its profits above the health of the river and all of the people and businesses who depend on it. We are disappointed that we have to file a lawsuit to protect this place, but it is vital that we rebuild in a way that supports this river and our region’s water wealth. We hope the agencies put measures in place to ensure that we can all continue to benefit from a healthy Nolichucky River for generations to come.”

The conservation groups’ lawsuit was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of North Carolina and asks the court to revoke the work authorizations from the Army Corps of Engineers, Forest Service, and Fish and Wildlife Service.

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American Rivers statement on election of Donald Trump as next President

November 6, 2024

Contact: Amy Souers Kober, 503-708-1145

(Washington, DC) – Following the election of Donald Trump as the 47^th President of the United States, American Rivers released a set of priorities for his administration to protect the rivers on which all life depends, and the clean water that is our country’s greatest source of natural wealth.

“Rivers offer a chance for divided communities to come together around desperately needed solutions. American Rivers looks forward to working with President-elect Trump and all of our elected leaders to make every community in our country stronger, safer, and healthier by investing in clean water and healthy rivers,” said Tom Kiernan, President and CEO of American Rivers.

Defending our water security: a blueprint to deliver clean water, strong infrastructure, and safe communities outlines four key priorities:

Ensure America has the cleanest water in the world
Invest in infrastructure and build smart
Make America more safe and secure
Help energy providers lead long-term

“A clean, flowing river is a community’s superpower, keeping families healthy by delivering reliable drinking water, safeguarding homes and businesses from flood damage, and providing economic opportunity and access to nature,” Kiernan said. “But too many communities lack access to safe, clean water and rivers, and that is holding our country back.”

Pollution and poor planning decisions are poisoning our water supplies. Just in the last month, record hurricanes and floods claimed hundreds of lives and devastated communities. Drought along the Colorado River and low water levels on the Mississippi River threaten billions in economic activity.

“There has never been more urgent need for action to protect the rivers at the heart of our nation’s security, economy, health, and heritage. At American Rivers, we are committed to advancing good ideas for clean water and rivers, and stopping bad ones,” said Kiernan. “We are dedicated to working with the new administration and with leaders across the political spectrum at all levels of government to advance positive, bipartisan solutions for rivers and communities.”

Nearly everyone in our country lives within a mile of a river, but too few know what their river provides. Most of our drinking water comes directly from rivers, and natural river habitats support communities, animals, and plants. Farms, ranches, and businesses all depend on reliable water supplies.

About American Rivers

River restoration progress in Portland and Chicago is example for rivers nationwide

Contact:
Amy Souers Kober, American Rivers, akober@americanrivers.org, 503-708-1145
Willie Levenson, Human Access Project, willie@humanaccessproject.com, 503-936-6920

(Portland, Oregon) – The health of rivers in our nation’s cities including Portland and Chicago is on the rebound, but clean water and public health remain at risk unless the nation strengthens clean water protections. A new “Eye on America” CBS News story with Jim Axelrod that aired Monday, October 21 explores lessons from the Willamette and Chicago Rivers.

Watch the story here.

“The genesis of why Portland can swim in the Willamette River downtown today is thanks to the toolkit of strong federal clean water protections,” says Willie Levenson, executive director of the Human Access Project.

“It’s easy for many to give up on rivers in our largest urban centers,” Levenson says. “A lot of cities are impacted by pollution levels that seem too challenging to solve, and lack of access to the river’s edge. But two of our nation’s cities, Portland and Chicago, are leading the way and writing the playbook for other cities to reclaim their urban waterways for improved river health, public health, and recreation.”

“The Willamette River is Portland’s second largest public space and natural area, and is owned by the citizens of Oregon. A swimmable river is every urban city’s untapped source of livability, and in Portland our river asset is slowly but surely being embraced. Portland was one of the very first cities internationally to successfully manage removing sewage overflow into our river. It is exciting to see other cities following Portland’s lead and to be a part of what has become an international urban swimming movement.”

More than 80 percent of people in our country live in cities, and most live within a mile of a river. Yet many urban rivers and streams are unhealthy and polluted, have been paved over, and used as dumping grounds. This means a large portion of our population lacks access to clean, natural places crucial for health and wellness. Polluted rivers don’t just impact their immediate surroundings — they impact entire ecosystems downstream.

“Portland and Chicago demonstrate that people don’t have to accept pollution, and that there is a big prize at the other end for doing the work to reclaim urban waterways for people and wildlife,” says Levenson.

“It is fantastic to see the progress on rivers like the Willamette and Chicago, and it’s so important that we keep this positive momentum going,” said Amy Souers Kober, Vice President for Communications at American Rivers. “People want safe, clean water because it’s vital for our health. But polluters are working to weaken clean water protections for rivers nationwide, and water infrastructure is aging, increasing the threat of pollution. Voters can ensure we don’t go backwards. We can use our voices at the ballot box and we can support candidates who protect water and rivers.

“Safe, clean, reliable water is a bipartisan issue because it is a basic need and a human right that connects us all. No matter who you are or where you live, each and every one of us deserves clean water and a healthy river.”

Learn more: The Best Cities are River Cities

About American Rivers

American Rivers is championing a national effort to protect and restore all rivers, from remote mountain streams to urban waterways. Healthy rivers provide people and nature with clean, abundant water and natural habitat. For 50 years, American Rivers staff, supporters, and partners have shared a common belief: Life Depends on Rivers. For more information, please visit www.AmericanRivers.org 

About the Human Access Project

Human Access Project, formed in 2010, is a nonprofit organization based in Portland, Oregon. Our role in the community is catalyzing cultural change around how people feel about and interact with the Willamette River. We want the community to view the Willamette River as an asset, something to be valued and protected. We want to foster and drive a connection between the people of Portland and the river that runs through our community. More information can be found at humanaccessproject.com

Contact:
Jaime D. Sigaran (240) 593-3433
Amy Souers Kober (503) 708-1145

Washington, DC – During Climate Week, the Biden-Harris Administration announced a series of climate commitments including critical investments and projects to restore rivers, support fish passage, enhance infrastructure for Tribal Nations, and protect clean water. Building on the Investing in America Agenda and the America the Beautiful Freshwater Challenge, the Biden-Harris Administration leaves a legacy that creates a new formula for success in how our nation strengthens the economy while expanding clean energy and balancing conservation.

In response to the White House announcement, Tom Kiernan, President and CEO of American Rivers issued the following statement:

“We commend the Biden-Harris Administration for their work to restore rivers and support clean water for Americans nationwide. Too many communities are held back and harmed by pollution, unsafe dams, and outdated infrastructure. The administration’s actions for water and rivers will make our communities safer and healthier, and our entire nation stronger.

“Rivers drive local economies and are the backbone of every community across America. No matter where you live, rivers and streams play a critical role in providing clean, safe, reliable drinking water, supporting businesses, farms and ranches, and giving families access to nature.”

“As a partner of America the Beautiful Freshwater Challenge, we are proud of the commitments made today and look forward to reigniting on our efforts to turn this vision into reality. Today’s announcement complements American Rivers’ mission to protect 1 million miles by 2030 and half of all rivers in the country by 2050.”

“We are particularly grateful for the Oconaluftee River Restoration project in North Carolina, a project to remove the Ela Dam and eliminate the only physical barrier preventing the Oconaluftee River from flowing freely and reconnect 549 river miles that benefit rare and federally endangered species.”

Key Highlights:

10 transformational fish passage projects that bring economic prosperity and opportunity to communities across Arizona, Alaska, California, Maine, Montana, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, and Washington.

3 contracts for long-term water conservation for the Lower Colorado River Basin all with the Gila River Indian Community which will provide 73,000 acre-feet of water savings.

A new water infrastructure investment of $9.4 million for Tribal Nations to address drought relief and receive technical projects including wetland restoration, irrigation, and groundwater monitoring.

An additional $92 million for Bureau of Reclamation’s WaterSMART Aquatic Ecosystems Restoration Program to restore salmon and native fish in the West as well as provide increased water quality, floodplain stability and drought resiliency.

About American Rivers

American Rivers is championing a national effort to protect and restore all rivers, from remote mountain streams to urban waterways. Healthy rivers provide people and nature with clean, abundant water and natural habitat. For 50 years, American Rivers staff, supporters, and partners have shared a common belief: Life Depends on Rivers. For more information, please visit www.AmericanRivers.org 

Contact:
Amy Souers Kober, 503-708-1145
Mike Sertle, 815-238-3017

American Rivers announced today that Michael Sertle is joining the organization as its new Senior Director for the Central Region. Sertle has more than two decades of experience in river conservation and floodplain restoration, with a focus on public and private lands of the Upper Mississippi and Missouri River basins.

“Rivers and the clean, safe water they provide are vital to this region. Mike has deep roots on these rivers and a long track record of success advancing solutions that revitalize river health and strengthen communities. We are thrilled to welcome him to the American Rivers team,” said Heather Taylor-Miesle, Senior Vice President for Conservation.

“I’m excited to join American Rivers and bring my experience and knowledge of river conservation to the organization,” said Sertle. “Growing up and working on these rivers has taught me to love their uniqueness and appreciate the importance of protecting and restoring these systems for people, wildlife, and future generations.”

Prior to joining American Rivers, Mike served as manager of conservation programs for the Big Rivers Initiative at Ducks Unlimited, covering Iowa, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, and Indiana, and oversaw conservation program planning, budget management, and habitat restoration.

Previous positions include regional biologist at Ducks Unlimited, where he delivered conservation programs in Michigan, Indiana, and Illinois, and researcher at the USGS Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center where he studied endangered wildlife, waterfowl migration, and wetland carbon sequestration.

Originally from the Driftless area of northwestern Illinois, Mike spent most of his life growing up on the Mississippi River and its tributaries.He received a B.S. from Western Illinois University in zoology and an M.S. from Southern Illinois University – Carbondale in wetland ecology.

Mike is based in the St. Louis area and begins at American Rivers on September 9.

About American Rivers

Tribal and conservation advocates celebrate as river is returned to historic channel; restoration activities to continue for several more years

CONTACT
Ren Brownell, ren@klamathrenewal.org, KRRC PIO, 530-598-8255
Craig Tucker, craig@suitsandsigns.com, Consultant for the Karuk Tribe 916-207-8294
Matt Mais, mmais@yuroktribe.nsn.us, PR Director for the Yurok Tribe 707-954-0976

Klamath River Renewal Corporation • Karuk Tribe • Yurok Tribe • American Rivers • American Whitewater • California Trout • Environmental Protection Information Center • Institute for Fisheries Resources • International Rivers • Native Fish Society • Northern California Council, Fly Fishers International • Pacific Coast Federation of Fishermen’s Associations • Ridges to Riffles Indigenous Conservation Group • Salmon River Restoration Council • Save California Salmon • Sustainable Northwest Trout Unlimited

Hornbrook, Calif. – Today, the last coffer dams were broken at the former Iron Gate and Copco No. 1 Dam sites, returning the Klamath river to its natural path and marking an end to a significant construction phase in the largest salmon restoration project in U.S. history. The project is a major step toward healing a critical watershed for West Coast salmon production and is widely recognized as a Tribal justice initiative that will help revitalize the culture and economies of several Tribal Nations whose homelands are in the Klamath Basin.

“I am excited to be in the restoration phase of the Klamath River. Restoring hundreds of miles of spawning grounds and improving water quality will help support the return of our salmon, a healthy, sustainable food source for several Tribal Nations. This is truly a great day for the Karuk and all the Native People of the Klamath Basin,” said Russell ‘Buster’ Attebery, Chairman of the Karuk Tribe.

Another wall fell today. The dams that have divided the basin are now gone and the river is free. Our sacred duty to our children, our ancestors, and for ourselves, is to take care of the river, and today’s events represent a fulfillment of that obligation,” said Yurok Tribe Vice Chairman Frankie Myers.

Four dams have been under deconstruction on the Klamath river, which traverses the California-Oregon border, over the past year. Benefits of dam removal include reintroducing salmon to more than 400 miles of historical habitat, eliminating reservoirs that hosted massive blooms of toxic blue green algae each summer, and eliminating conditions that enabled fish diseases to thrive. All of these benefits are expected to support the rebound of what was once the third largest salmon fishery in the lower 48 states.

“While there is still work to be done,today we are celebrating,” said Mark Bransom, CEO of the Klamath River Renewal Corporation, the non-profit entity tasked with the removal of the dams. “Watching the Klamath River return to its historic path in the reservoirs and now through the dam sites has been incredible, and I feel honored to take this project over the finish line for our Tribal partners, and river communities.”

Although the construction phase of dam removal is expected to be completed by the end of September (some remaining riverside infrastructure is still being deconstructed), restoration of the land along the river and in key tributaries that were previously covered by the reservoirs will continue for several years. Resource Environmental Solutions (RES), the company contracted to oversee the restoration, is committed to remaining active in the basin until vegetation is successfully established and the newly restored habitat is on a positive ecological trajectory.

Background

Discussions about the potential for Klamath River dam removal began in earnest more than 20 years ago, shortly after an estimated 70,000 adult salmon died in the lower river before they could spawn. The 2002 fish kill was a traumatic event for Klamath River Tribal communities. In response, Tribal members started a grassroots campaign with the goal of removing the lower four Klamath River dams as a requisite step toward restoring the watershed to health. The Bring the Salmon Home campaign called on the company that previously owned the dams, PacifiCorp, to surrender the lower four Klamath River dams for the purpose of removal.

After years of protests, lawsuits, and direct action, PacifiCorp, the States of California and Oregon, Tribal governments, conservation groups, commercial and recreational fishing organizations, and local governments reached a settlement agreement in 2016 to remove the dams. It took additional negotiations to secure final approval from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for the dam removal and restoration to proceed. FERC approved the license surrender order in November 2022, allowing the transfer of the hydropower project to the Klamath River Renewal Corporation so they could proceed with the removal.

The smallest of the four dams, Copco No. 2, was removed in 2023. The reservoirs behind the three remaining dams were drained in January of this year, carefully timed to minimize impacts on fish runs. The river has been returned to its historic path at each dam site. As of today, the Klamath River flows freely and will allow fish passage from the mouth of the river in California up to where it originates below Lake Euwana, just below Upper Klamath Lake in Oregon. Dam removal also opens access to hundreds of miles of high-quality tributaries for migrating salmon, steelhead, and other aquatic species.

More information about this historic dam removal and larger watershed-wide restoration effort is available at reconnectklamath.org and klamathrenewal.org

Quotes from Supporting Organizations

“The Klamath River was once the third largest salmon producing river in the continental U.S., and restoring its once-abundant salmon runs has been a priority for the coastal salmon fishing families that PCFFA represents for at least four decades. With the freeing of the river for salmon to once again fully occupy it, the valuable salmon runs from the Klamath are expected to more than double in numbers – which means more salmon fishing jobs and stronger coastal salmon fishing-dependent communities as an enduring legacy of these efforts. I am proud to have been a major part of making this happen.”

-Glen Spain, NW Regional Director, Pacific Coast Federation ofFishermen’s Associations (PCFFA)

“Because of Klamath River dam removal, salmon can return to the Upper Klamath Basin in Oregon for the first time in over 100 years. This will help restore salmon runs for Tribes up and down the river, including the Klamath Tribes in Oregon. Sustainable Northwest is proud to have played a role in this Tribally-led project to restore salmon runs and healthy river flows, and support Tribal justice.”

-Lee Rahr, Vice President of Programs, Sustainable Northwest

“Big things happen when committed people decide that failure is not an option. So today, on behalf of Klamath River salmon and steelhead and the communities that cannot live without them, we celebrate all the talented, relentless people who wouldn’t take no for an answer – the people who lit the fire, the people who worked behind the scenes, the public servants who did the right thing – all of the people who got it done when everyone said it wasn’t possible.”

-Brian J. Johnson, Senior Policy Advisor, Western Water and Climate, Trout Unlimited

“I’m proud that CalTrout has been at the table pushing for this crucial and pivotal river restoration project to transpire, and it is so satisfying to share the experience with partners from fellow conservation organizations, government agencies, and most especially our Indigenous and tribal partners,” said Curtis Knight, Executive Director of California Trout. “Dam removal on the Klamath River is special not just because of its magnitude and impact, but because of all the people that came together to make this happen. We started this journey 24 years ago sitting at a negotiation table. Together this amazing community of committed people are pulling off the largest dam removal and restoration project in U.S. history.”

-Curtis Knight, Executive Director, California Trout

”When we remove a dam, we don’t just restore a river, we heal communities. This tremendous milestone is thanks to the ongoing leadership of the river’s Tribes and grassroots advocates, and holds important lessons for other rivers nationwide. American Rivers named the Klamath as the River of the Year for 2024 because it proves that we can overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges and make incredible progress by working together. American Rivers is honored to continue our work advancing restoration and partnering with communities across the watershed.”

-Dr. Ann Willis, California Regional Director, American Rivers

“I am proud to say that the fly fishing community has been a part of this process for nearly 23 years, and that we joined many partners at the negotiating table who were focused on restoring the Klamath to its historical greatness. The river is now running free & in its historical channel. The fishery & river will now have a chance to begin the process of recovery. We are happy for the river, the fish, our negotiating partners, and the Tribal communities – The river people – whose lives are forever changed for the better. Never give up was our motto. It has worked.”

-Dr. Mark Rockwell, VP Conservation, Northern California Council, Fly Fishers International

“The Indigenous Peoples and Tribal Nations of the Klamath River have fought long and hard for the Klamath River to flow freely and begin recovering from colonization. Today’s final breach of the last dam on the river marks the beginning of a new era on the Klamath River during which Indigenous cultures can thrive alongside the many species and communities that are dependent upon the resilience of the Klamath River. We would not have reached this movement without the remarkable commitments of the Klamath Basin Indigenous Peoples and Tribal Nations and their many partners. We celebrate as a united Klamath Basin.”

-Amy Bowers Cordalis, Executive Director, Ridges to Riffles Indigenous Conservation Group

”Local families, especially native families on the Klamath River, fought for generations for this day. Many of us, and our kids, grew up in the movements for fishing rights and dam removal and many local people’s childhood memories include the toxic algae and fish kills. Now our children, grandchildren, and schools are planting seeds and engaging in dam removal and restoration. Youth are learning about the local successful movement for the environment and civil rights and how powerful they can be, and have hope for the future. We are so grateful we are able to celebrate this moment with our families, and that in the near future our youth will be able to enjoy salmon and a clean river instead of having to fight so hard.”

-Regina Chichizola, Save California Salmon

”Today marks a significant milestone in our commitment to restoring the health of the Klamath River ecosystem. The removal of the Klamath dams not only restores the natural flow of the river but also paves the way for the resurgence of the nearly extinct Klamath spring Chinook. Historically the largest run in the basin, the Klamath dams had blocked 90% of their habitat. Thanks to decades of advocacy protecting the Klamath’s last wild spring Chinook genetics, these heirs to the upper basin can finally return home.”

-Amber Jamieson, water advocacy director for Environmental Protection Information Center

“International Rivers stands in solidarity with the Klamath River Tribal communities who have championed the restoration of their ancestral waters and ways of life. This historic dam removal, improving access to over 400 miles of habitat, represents a shared victory for all who recognize nature as a living ecosystem to be cherished and protected. As the world watches the Klamath flow freely for the first time in over a century, we are witnessing a powerful example of what’s possible when we prioritize ecological integrity and respect Indigenous stewardship. This victory ripples far beyond the Klamath, offering hope and inspiration for river defenders worldwide.”

-Isabella Winkler and Josh Klemm, Co-Directors, International Rivers

“The removal of the Klamath River dams marks a historic moment not only for the river and the wild, native fish that rely on it, but also for the countless individuals, Tribes, community members, and organizations who have worked tirelessly for this celebrated outcome. This achievement is a testament to the power of collaboration and perseverance, as together we have made a lasting impact on the future of wild fish that will benefit generations to come. Native Fish Society is honored to join in celebrating of this incredible journey, and to continue our mission of working towards wild abundance throughout the Pacific Northwest.”

– Mark Sherwood, Executive Direct, Native Fish Society

Contact: Amy Souers Kober, 503-708-1145

Washington, DC – Today, the United States Senate and Energy and Natural Resources Committee reported the S. 4753, the Energy Permitting Reform Act of 2024 out of committee on a vote of 15 to 4. This bill contains provisions to accelerate permitting for energy upgrades and grid expansion to increase reliability of and reduce emissions from our electric grid. If left unchecked and unchanged, this bill could create disparate imbalances for rivers and people.

The following is a statement from Tom Kiernan, President and CEO, of American Rivers:

“American Rivers is deeply committed to balancing the protection of rivers and waterways with the safety and responsibility of meeting the nation’s growing energy needs.

We applaud Chairman Manchin’s commitment to get the language right on hydropower today and pledge to work with the committee and Congress to find common ground to include much needed hydropower reforms to build a more efficient licensing process under FERC. American Rivers will continue our advocacy to ensure S. 1521, the Community and Hydropower Improvement Act is passed. This bipartisan bill strengthens permitting by FERC, increases tribal engagement and oversight, and promotes healthy habitats and federal coordination in decision making.

We call on Congress to support S. 1521 to advance common sense hydropower solutions. Congress has a unique opportunity to find common ground on the role hydropower plays in addressing climate change while also restoring free-flowing rivers.”

Washington – American Rivers joined more than 500 organizations, businesses, growers, irrigators, and landowners representing a diverse range of Farm Bill stakeholders from across the country in submitting a letter urging Congress to pass a Farm Bill before the end of the year. The Farm Bill expires in September, which was extended by Congress in November 2023 to September 30, 2024, and will likely need another extension.

American Farm Bureau Federation, National Corn Growers Association, The Nature Conservancy, American Soybean Association, Ducks Unlimited, and American Rivers are among the than 500 organizations calling for the passage of a new Farm Bill.

“We’re proud to be part of this dynamic Farm Bill coalition. The Farm Bill is America’s largest investment in voluntary, incentive-based river conservation, restoration, and management of our lands and waters. We have to make meaningful progress now more than ever; the clock is ticking” said Tom Kiernan, President and CEO.

“Farmers can be vital partners in clean water and healthy rivers. We need Congress to act quickly to enhance key programs like the Emergency Watershed Programs so farmers can better deploy natural infrastructure solutions that can greatly reduce their overall flood risk, and at the same time improve river health.”

The letter was sent to House and Senate leadership and outlines the consequences of failing to pass a Farm Bill this year. Read the full letter here.

About American Rivers:

Contact: Amy Souers Kober, 503-708-1145

American Rivers announced today that Leda Huta is joining the organization as its new Vice President, Government Relations. Huta is an accomplished coalition builder and conservation advocate, with more than two decades of expertise in water and wildlife policy.

“Leda has been working to address the growing biodiversity crisis and water health for more than 20 years. Her experience and bipartisan know-how will take American Rivers’ policy shop to the next level as we work to protect more than 1 million miles of rivers and remove outdated dams to improve river health and public safety. I welcome Leda’s leadership and look forward to working with her,” said Heather Taylor-Miesle, Senior Vice President for Conservation.

Most recently, Huta was executive director of Waterkeepers Chesapeake, where she forged strategy to secure the collective impact of 16 Waterkeepers of the Chesapeake Bay. Before that she served as executive director of the Endangered Species Coalition for 17 years where she directed the organizational strategy for policy and led innovative campaigns to engage communities and protect wildlife.

“Rivers are essential to all life, but the threats facing our rivers, from pollution to dams to climate change, are significant,” Huta said. “Fortunately, rivers provide excellent opportunities to bring communities together around solutions we need for clean water, wildlife, and public health and safety. I am thrilled to work with American Rivers and partners to build strong coalitions and champions for the rivers that sustain us all.”

Huta will start at American Rivers on August 5, based in the organization’s Washington, DC headquarters.

About American Rivers

June 24, 2024
Contact: Amy Souers Kober, 503-708-1145

The Rapidan Dam on the Blue Earth River near Mankato, Minnesota is failing, putting downstream communities at risk. Recent rainfall and high water levels in the river undermined the integrity of the dam, which was already in a state of disrepair.

Brian Graber, senior director for river restoration at American Rivers, made the following statement:

“This is a serious risk for public safety that should have been avoided. Aging, unsafe dams are ticking time bombs. While the immediate focus must be on ensuring nearby residents are safe, we must do a better job at the state and federal level to improve the safety of dams nationwide.”

“This is not an isolated incident. Climate change is bringing more severe flooding, at a time when our nation’s infrastructure is crumbling. There are tens of thousands of obsolete, unsafe dams across the country. Hundreds of dams have breached or failed in recent years because of heavy rainfall and flooding, putting communities at risk.”

“The fact that Blue Earth County was aware of the dam’s poor condition underscores the need for more support and funding to expedite the process to remove or repair hazardous dams.”

“We must invest in our rivers to protect public health and safety. This means shoring up necessary oversight and safety regulations, while also increasing funding for water infrastructure, including the removal of outdated dams. The most cost-effective and permanent way to deal with obsolete, unsafe dams is to remove them.”

“It is more important than ever to reauthorize and strengthen the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s National Dam Safety Program. The National Dam Safety Program provides grants to State Dam Safety Agencies to reduce the public safety risks associated with dams. FEMA received an additional $725 million through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Legislation for dam safety, including programs like FEMA’s High Hazard Potential Dam Rehabilitation Grant Program, which can fund the removal or repair of eligible dams.”

About American Rivers
American Rivers is championing a national effort to protect and restore all rivers, from remote mountain streams to urban waterways. Healthy rivers provide people and nature with clean, abundant water and natural habitat. For 50 years, American Rivers staff, supporters, and partners have shared a common belief: Life Depends on Rivers. AmericanRivers.org