Washington Governor Jay Inslee issued an executive order on December 3 to address the decline of salmon and steelhead habitats in the Columbia River Basin caused by dam construction. The order is part of a collaboration between the Federal government, the states of Oregon and Washington, and four regional tribes.
The executive order focuses on implementing the Columbia Basin Restoration Initiative (CBRI) by directing state agencies to work with Oregon and regional tribes—including Yakama, Umatilla, Nez Perce, and Warm Springs. The goal is to advance science-based solutions, restore habitats, and engage diverse interest groups to protect the salmon population in the Columbia River Basin.
Inslee emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “Salmon have inhabited Washington for millions of years, but their time is running out,” and stressing the importance of ongoing efforts to restore the salmon runs.
The executive order also highlights the Federal government’s commitment to restoring salmon and steelhead populations in the Columbia River Basin and Snake River through a litigation agreement with the “Six Sovereigns,” which includes Oregon, Washington, and the regional tribes.
As part of the Resilient Columbia Basin Agreement, the White House announced over $1 billion in new federal investments for wild fish restoration and the development of tribally-sponsored clean energy production. Inslee indicated that the executive order would be reviewed at the end of the 10-year litigation stay or if a party withdraws from the agreement.
Inslee’s office warned of potential litigation if the incoming administration deviates from the agreement, emphasizing the need to prioritize salmon recovery and uphold Tribal treaty rights. The governor reiterated the importance of preserving the state’s waters and committing to salmon recovery efforts.
With steelhead trout and various salmon populations listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act, the executive order aims to address the critical situation facing these species. Conservation organizations, like the National Wildlife Federation, have expressed support for the executive order and its potential impact on salmon recovery efforts in the region.
Inslee, who will not seek re-election after his current term ends, has been a vocal advocate for salmon recovery in Washington. The executive order reflects the state’s commitment to preserving salmon habitats and working towards restoring healthy and abundant salmon and steelhead populations in the Columbia River Basin.
