The project, driven by advocates and tribal activists, aims to return the river to its natural state in a bid to restore local ecosystems.
They highlight the detrimental effects the dams have had on the local environment and the near extinction of salmon in the river, which has disrupted sacred tribal practices. However, the project is not without controversy. Homeowners in the vicinity of the dams have expressed concerns about potential decreases in property value as their homes will no longer be waterfront properties.
The 500 million Dollars cost of the project, funded by taxpayers and contracts with the local electric power company, PacifiCorp, has also drawn criticism. Advocates of the project say this cost is necessary for restoring nature and point to the success of similar initiatives in Washington state.
