Factual Friday: President Lyndon Johnson signed the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act into law in 1968, and four years later Governor Ronald Reagan signed into law the Golden State’s version – the California Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. We love these historic photos because they remind us that protecting special rivers has a history of bipartisan support.

The California law states that, “certain rivers which possess extraordinary scenic, recreational, fishery, or wildlife values shall be preserved in their free-flowing state, together with their immediate environments, for the benefit and enjoyment of the people of the state.”

The Klamath River is protected under both the state and federal versions of Wild and Scenic legislation, and we certainly understand why. The Klamath River is an amazingly beautiful waterway. But we think it will become even more beautiful when it is no longer segmented by four hydroelectric dams. Once KRRC removes those dams, the Klamath will run unimpeded for more than 250 miles from the outskirts of Klamath Falls to the small town of Klamath next to the sea. This will revitalize runs of salmon and steelhead and boost the economy of Klamath Basin communities. We can’t wait! ... See more

Factual Friday: What will the beavers do when the Klamath dams come down?

One of the interesting outcomes of dam removal on the Elwah River was a rebound in beaver populations. Not only are beavers thriving along the Elwha, but the beaver dams create pools that provide ideal habitat for juvenile salmon to rest and feed. Talk about a win-win! We are looking forward to seeing how beaver populations respond to removal of the Klamath dams.

Learn more through this The Seattle Times article: https://www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/environment/wood-chips-fly-at-elwha-river-as-beavers-make-a-comeback/ ... See more

“’As we’ve seen time after time on rivers across the country, dam removal works. Thanks to FERC’s decision today, the Klamath River is on the way to rebounding back to life. With ongoing cooperation from PacifiCorp and federal regulators, our children and future generations will know a healthy, free-flowing Klamath River,’ said Curtis Knight, Executive Director of California Trout.” via Lost Coast Outpost ... See more

Yesterday, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) approved the partial transfer of the Lower Klamath Project License to KRRC, provided that PacifiCorp remain a co-licensee. We are pleased that FERC has identified a pathway for the project to move forward. There is more work to be done, and we are working with our settlement partners on how to ensure a successful project. Our partners have indicated they remain committed to identifying a path to move forward. The FERC Order can be viewed through the link below. ... See more

Factual Friday: Did you know Chinook salmon are prolific egg-layers? But just how many eggs can a single Chinook lay at a time? Test your knowledge with Reconnect Klamath's latest “How Klamath Basin Are You?” quiz. It has a host of interesting questions and factual information! ... See more

Happy Independence Day! We are thankful for our freedom and all the beauty and natural wonder our great nation has to offer. Wishing everyone a safe, healthy, and happy July 4th!

Factual Friday: Did you know the Klamath River was added to the National Wild & Scenic Rivers System in 1981?

In 1968, Congress created the Wild & Scenic Rivers Act, which protects more than 12,700 miles of rivers and streams in the U.S. Designation as a wild and scenic river is our nation’s strongest form of protection for free-flowing rivers and streams. They have remarkable scenic, recreational, geologic, fish and wildlife, historic or other similar values that led Congress to add these waterways to the National Wild & Scenic Rivers System.

In Oregon, 11 miles of the Klamath River are designated “scenic.” This beautiful section runs from the J.C. Boyle Powerhouse to the California-Oregon border. J.C. Boyle Dam is the uppermost dam slated for removal under the terms of the Klamath Hydroelectric Settlement Agreement.

In California, 23.5 miles of the Klamath River are listed as “scenic,” 11.7 miles are designated “wild,” and a whopping 250.8 are deemed “recreational.” That’s a lot of river to enjoy! The designation runs from the mouth of the river to the base of Iron Gate Dam – the lowest of the four dams KRRC has been tasked with removing.

We look forward to the sight of happy families and individuals rafting, fishing and recreating on the restored Klamath River! ... See more