The Klamath Hydroelectric Settlement Agreement, or KHSA, is a cornerstone to the broader-reaching Klamath Basin Restoration Agreement (KBRA). The two agreements are intricately linked as one could not succeed without the other. A key component of the Hydro Agreement is the possible removal of four dams on the Klamath River. The more comprehensive KBRA contains many important activities that complement benefits removing the dams bring, which include economic, cultural, and environmental enhancements to the basin ecosystem and local economies.

The KHSA only outlines a possible path to dam removal. The final decision is the responsibility of the Secretary of the Interior, Ken Salazar, who is currently working in cooperation with the Department of Commerce and other federal agencies to issue a decision by March 31, 2012.

Benefits of Dam Removal

Dam removal would play a very significant part in the recovery of Klamath fisheries in the basin and it is seen as the only way to restore endangered salmon to historic spawning grounds in the river upstream from the dams. The Klamath Tribes of Oregon have not seen salmon in these waters in almost 100 years.

Besides blocking passage for fish, the dams’ reservoirs are also associated with a toxic algae that grows in the still, warmer waters. The toxin is dangerous to humans and fish and it can be lethal to pets and livestock.

A key benefit of dam removal is that it saves money and will lower utility bills for ratepayers. The utility company’s license to run the dams has expired and either the aging dams must be retrofitted and repaired, or removed. A recent ruling by the Oregon Public Utility Commission found that removing the dams could be only half the cost as re-licensing.

Collectively, the four dams comprise the Klamath Hydroelectric Project, which generates 169 megawatts of power. If dam removal happens, equivalent power would be supplied by other forms of renewable energy, which many see as a significant investment that brings new jobs to river communities. The dam removal process itself would also create many new jobs.

The Dam Removal Process

The KHSA mandates that the Department of the Interior (DOI) create a detailed plan for possible dam removal that uses extensive scientific reviews to evaluate the costs and benefits. A recent study found that the sediment behind the dams contains no toxins.

In addition the DOI will recommend procedures that minimize impacts on wildlife and communities -- while also ensuring compliance with all environmental laws. No environmental laws would be changed or altered by either restoration agreement. The KHSA also sets forth a timeline and deadline for decisions, in addition to clarifying liabilities and funding mechanisms. More information is available at http://klamathrestoration.gov/

The four dams under consideration for removal are: JC Boyle, Iron Gate, Copco 1 and Copco 2. None of these dams are used for irrigation, which is an important point for Klamath basin agriculture. Many smaller dams in the upper basin are used for agricultural purposes and none of those are being considered for removal. Farmers would still get water from behind Keno and Link dams, which are small enough barriers for fish to pass using ladders

Collectively, the four dams comprise the Klamath Hydroelectric Project, which generates 169 megawatts of power. If dam removal happens, equivalent power would be supplied by other forms of renewable energy, which many see as a significant investment that brings new jobs to river communities. The dam removal process itself would also create many new jobs.

Implementation of the KHSA and dam removal requires passage of federal legislation by Congress. Similarly, the KBRA also requires federal legislation and both agreements are in legislative drafting phase now.

More information on dam removal is available at: http://www.americanrivers.org/our-work/restoring-rivers/dams/projects/restoring-klamath-river.html