Hells Canyon, the deepest gorge in North America, is a treasure trove for fish, wildlife, and outdoor enthusiasts. Its waters are abundant with rainbows, small-mouth bass, steelhead, fall chinook salmon, and even giant sturgeon.

The experience in the canyon is breathtaking, with towering peaks and diverse wildlife, including mule deer, elk, black bear, and wild bighorn sheep.

The area boasts the Snake River’s biggest whitewater, drawing 50,000 visitors annually for jet and float boat recreation.

River recreationists depend on sufficiently balanced river flows to ensure safe, enjoyable recreation experiences for Idaho residents and out of state visitors. These businesses are vital to surrounding communities, contributing to Idaho’s $7.9 billion recreation economy, with outfitters and guides — a little-known fact — generating $1 billion yearly.

The impact is centered primarily in rural Idaho, where we need it!

Historically, a balance was maintained between hydropower generation, recreation, and ecological needs. But this equilibrium has shifted. As Idaho Power’s portfolio changes, working to phase out coal plants in Wyoming and Nevada and shift toward more renewable energy production, Hells Canyon NRA, one of our nation’s crown jewels, is suffering.

Dramatic fluctuations in water levels (from 6,500 cubic feet per second to 22,000 cfs and back during a 24-hour period) can strand boats and compromise navigation.

Flows below 8,500 cfs can have an especially negative effect on the ability of jetboats to navigate big rapids and for float boats to provide the best, most thrilling experience possible for the recreating public — and can also impede rescue operations in the remote, difficult-to-access canyon.

Right now, Idaho Power is in the process of re-licensing its three-dam hydroelectric complex in Hells Canyon. That re-licensing process gives us a voice and a chance to advocate for change.

Last week, members of the recreationists and outfitting industry proposed House Joint Memorial 9, sponsored by Rep. Charlie Shepherd of Pollock, hoping to send a message to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission supporting a minimum flow of 8,500 cfs during the core summer season.

Far from a radical ask, this flow rate was standard practice for years.

But within a day of HJM9 getting printed, Idaho Power sent out an alarming mass SMS message, claiming Rep. Shepherd wanted to cede control of the Snake River to the Biden administration so the feds can steal our water, among other misleading and vilifying claims.

In short order, HJM9 was “put in a drawer,” not to resurface for Committee comment or further consideration. Idaho Power flexed its political muscle.

Idaho’s recreating public, outfitters, and the rural communities they support may not see eye-to-eye with Idaho Power on the issues HJM9 raised, but disagreement is not a basis for baseless claims, nor personal attacks like those levied against Rep. Shepherd.

Rather, Rep. Shepherd, and others advocating for balanced management, deserve our support. Their efforts reflect a commitment to both our natural heritage and the economic vitality of rural Idaho communities.

The truth is, Hells Canyon is a national treasure. Managing the mighty Snake River requires reasonable discourse and a balanced approach that respects the needs of energy production, recreation and environmental stewardship.

HJM 9 is shelved, and that’s fine. But to everyone who cares about equitable flows and responsible shared use in the Snake River, we encourage you to send Rep. Shepherd your support and most importantly, send a comment to FERC in support of an 8,500 cfs minimum flow in Hells Canyon. Now is the time!