Green activists are focusing on clean hydropower to protect fish populations

Instead of relying on fossil fuels, we are urged to invest in “clean” energy sources like wind, solar, and hydropower.

Among these options, hydropower is considered the most reliable as it provides a steady flow of energy unlike the unpredictability of wind and sunlight.

Despite this reliability, environmental groups are advocating for the removal of dams that produce hydropower, claiming that they are causing harm to salmon populations.

The activists have focused their efforts on four dams along the Snake River in Washington state, arguing that the dams are driving salmon to extinction.

While it is true that dams historically posed challenges to salmon by blocking their migration routes, advancements like fish ladders and spillways have significantly improved the survival rates of salmon passing through these dams.

Current data shows that between 96% and 98% of salmon successfully navigate each dam, with federal scientific agencies supporting the idea that leaving the dams in place will not harm the fish populations.

Despite this evidence, environmental groups continue to raise concerns about the survival of Snake River salmon, using alarmist language to solicit support for dam removal.

Contrary to these claims, recent population numbers show that salmon populations are actually higher now than they were in the past.

This discrepancy highlights the tendency of some environmental groups to exaggerate threats for fundraising purposes, perpetuating misinformation to maintain public support.

While politicians and activists advocate for the removal of Snake River dams, experts like Todd Myers argue that such actions would not only be environmentally unnecessary but also detrimental to the region’s electrical grid.

In contrast to the intermittent nature of wind and solar power, hydropower provides a reliable source of energy that can be easily adjusted to meet demand, making it a valuable asset in maintaining grid stability.

Instead of focusing on costly and ineffective measures like dam removal, solutions like managing seal and sea lion populations could have a more significant impact on salmon recovery, according to the Washington Academy of Sciences.

By highlighting the importance of evidence-based conservation strategies over emotionally-driven campaigns, we can work towards a more sustainable future for both wildlife and energy production.

John Stossel is the author of “Give Me a Break: How I Exposed Hucksters, Cheats, and Scam Artists and Became the Scourge of the Liberal Media.”