Rep. Schrier Statement on Removal of Electron Dam

ISSAQUAH, WA -- Congresswoman Kim Schrier, M.D. (WA-08) issued a statement today calling for the removal of the Electron Dam. Following a pollution incident in July, in which vast quantities of discarded athletic turf were used to line a diversion dam in an unprecedented, unpermitted, and haphazard manner, and which resulted in 600 square yards of turf and at least 4-6 cubic yards of crumb rubber pollutants for miles downstream, Rep. Schrier has been meeting regularly with permitting agencies, the Puyallup Tribe, and other involved stakeholders.

In October, Congresswoman Schrier visited Electron to receive an update on pollution mitigation efforts. This summer's incident, which threatens already devastated salmon runs, has given Rep. Schrier the opportunity to learn more about this facility, the river, and the unique opportunity at Electron to return a healthy salmon population to the Puyallup River. The DOJ has opened an investigation at the request of the EPA into extensive potential violations over the incidents in July, but that investigation will not address the future of the dam.

Rep. Schrier said, "After months of listening and meeting with stakeholders, it is clear to me that this dam should be removed from the Puyallup River. The benefits from this facility are minimal, and the costs have been catastrophic for salmon and the surrounding ecosystem. Regardless of the outcome of the current investigation by the EPA into this summer's pollution incident, the long-term ecological health of the Puyallup River is jeopardized by the continued presence of this dam. After 116 years, it is time to restore the Puyallup River for our salmon and community, for the threatened orca population, and to honor our treaty agreements.

Electron Dam has been detrimental to fish for decades, killing an estimated 40% of juvenile chinook salmon, and blocking upstream migration of adults, while providing only a small amount of power. When I visited the site, I was struck by the power and beauty of this river. I also learned that this dam blocks migration of salmon and steelhead from 36 miles of upstream habitat, and that there are no other dams obstructing the flow of this pristine river with Rainier headwaters. This dam does not provide flood control, irrigation, recreation opportunities, or navigation needed for commerce. Since July, it has not even provided power for the local community. At a time when we are all looking to rescue our decimated salmon populations and ensure survival of the threatened Puget Sound orcas, the removal of the Electron Dam is one way to make a significant impact. From where we stand now, there are no benefits of the dam, and many downsides to the Puyallup River, salmon populations, and tribal resources. The Electron Dam should come down."