SENATE BILL REPORT

SJM 8013

BYSenators Metcalf, Owen, Sutherland and Rasmussen

Praying that the army corps of engineers install bypass facilities at hydroelectric projects.

Senate Committee on Environment & Natural Resources

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 27, 1989

Majority Report:     Do pass.

     Signed by Senators Metcalf, Chairman; Amondson, Vice Chairman; Barr, Benitz, Kreidler, Owen, Sutherland.

Senate Staff:Ross Antipa (786-7413)

                March 14, 1989

AS PASSED SENATE, MARCH 13, 1989

BACKGROUND:

Anadromous salmon and steelhead in the Columbia River basin must migrate over or through hydroelectric dams in order to complete their life cycle.  Juvenile fish populations have significant mortality rates as they negotiate dams which are not properly equipped to protect the fish.

If the dams were operated to minimize fish mortality rates, then the fish resources would be increased.

SUMMARY:

The Senate and House of Representatives request that the Congress direct the Army Corps of Engineers to implement the water spill agreement and install appropriate bypass facilities to improve anadromous fish survival.

Appropriation:  none

Revenue:   none

Fiscal Note:    none requested

Senate Committee - Testified:   Loren Stern, Department of Fisheries (pro)