Ask your senators and representative to help salmon and steelhead in the Northwest

Salmon and steelhead are at the essence of the Pacific Northwest. Their incredible fish migrations not only inspire awe, but also distribute nutrients that feed forests, wildlife, and people.

Despite being listed as a “threatened” species under the Endangered Species Act 22 years ago, less than 2% of the historic wild Chinook salmon and steelhead in Oregon’s Willamette River remain. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which operate the dams causing most of the harm, continue to deflect and make excuses for their inaction.

We are asking Congress to use their power to direct funding to recovery actions that truly save salmon and a living river. Send your personalized letter today to help save Chinook salmon and steelhead.

Photo Credit: California USFWS

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Dear Decision Makers,

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Rivers are life. Yet river ecosystems, and the fish and wildlife that depend on them, are the most degraded in the world. One-third of freshwater fish species are threatened with extinction while the climate crisis stresses rivers even further. Agencies that "manage" rivers are stuck in their boxes of yesteryear failing to adapt to the future we are facing.

I am writing you today to express my support for living rivers and ask you to ensure federal funds are directed to activities that truly make a difference for imperiled species. In Oregon's Willamette River, less than 2% of the historic wild Chinook salmon and steelhead population remain, even after being listed as "threatened" under the Endangered Species Act. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which operates multiple dams in the river system, continues to deflect its responsibilities for recovering these iconic species.

It is only with direction and dollars from Congress that this agency will be compelled to complete actions that help recover these species. This is why I am requesting that $25 million in funding be directed to the Columbia River Fish Mitigation Fund, within the Army Corps budget, specifically for Willamette River activities that support implementation of the current and future Biological Opinion. These funds were decimated over the last few years, which unfortunately provided the Corps another excuse for their neglect.

The many crises we face (climate, biodiversity, and water scarcity) are magnified in the archaic ways we treat waterways. It's time to rethink rivers and resuscitate the pulse of living rivers that supports all life.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP]
[Your Email]