Let The River Roll: Oshun O'Rourke: Yurok Tribe

The Klamath River 4-Dam Removal project is the largest such effort going on anywhere in the world. For decades advocates for letting the river run free to benefit salmon and all other associated riverine biodiversity assumed the corporate and government entities that had built and managed the dams were too powerful and closed off to the idea of removal.  But in recent years certain conditions changed and the stars somehow aligned— just long enough— for more open discussions of possibility to take place. Six indigenous tribes, agencies, politicians and corporate interests engaged in dialogues that led to a decision and a plan to bring the dams down.  By the end of 2024, this portion of the mighty Klamath River will flow freely once more.

Learn More About the 4-Dam Removal Project:

NPR: No turning back: The largest dam removal in U.S. history begins

American Rivers: 6 Things You Need to Know About the Klamath River Dam Removals

Oregon Public Broadcasting: Researchers, tribes, residents prepare for a century of sediment released from the Klamath dams

This episode was produced by Chrissie Bodznick with music by Trace Ketterling.

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