Editor’s Note: This was written by Lilly Wilson, a Youth Engagement Organizer for ICL. Lilly is an environmental science student at Boise State University and an avid climate activist. She also leads the Youth Salmon Protectors in advocating for the removal of the four lower Snake River dams to save wild salmon and steelhead from extinction, restore orca, and honor Tribal treaties.

In December, a huge stride was made for salmon in the Northwest—the Columbia Basin Restoration Initiative was released as a result of the 30-year-long litigation between Northwest Tribes, conservation organizations like ICL, and the U.S. Government. Our very own Executive Director, Justin Hayes attended the ceremonial signing of this historic agreement at the White House in February, celebrating a huge milestone while also looking ahead to the work still to be done. Just a few months later, Northwest youth with ICL’s Youth Salmon Protectors took to the nation’s capital to further advocate for this restoration effort. It was a busy winter and spring for salmon advocacy. And we have no interest in stopping now—we have to continue to build momentum. So this summer, I ask that you please do something for salmon.

In April, Youth Salmon Protectors with the Nez Perce Tribe, WA Youth Ocean & Rivers Conservation Alliance, and ICL traveled to D.C. to meet with elected officials and pressure Congress to urgently work to restore salmon runs in the Columbia Basin.

Walking into a congressional office and being the youngest person there can be intimidating, until you remember you’re not alone. Generations of Snake River advocates stand behind you, and you’re walking alongside other young people who aren’t willing to watch salmon go extinct.

On this year’s trip, seven Youth Salmon Protector (YSP) members from across the Pacific Northwest spent a week traversing the hill, days booked with back-to-back meetings with agencies and elected officials from Oregon, Idaho, and Washington. This year’s trip came just after exciting news for YSP—Nimiipuu youth from the newly founded YSP chapter on the Nez Perce Tribe Reservation joined!

Ella, a youth from this chapter, wrote, “It was a really good experience for us and an eye opener. It made us want to keep going on and keep fighting for our people and salmon.” 

Another YSP member, Scout Alford from Lewiston, shared her perspective on the trip: “DC overall was an amazing experience. The hands-on aspect of talking to the people who can actually incite change is super satisfying!”

Following in Justin’s footsteps, we shared the importance of this Initiative with decision makers in D.C., continuing to put pressure on those who have yet to voice their support for salmon. It is clear from their meetings that no representative wants to see salmon go extinct; rather, they are concerned about how this Initiative will impact those they are elected to represent. We know how this will impact them. Constituents will be able to see healthy salmon runs in their lifetime. They will be able to hike, camp, and hunt in thriving ecosystems. They will have a reliable and productive power grid and transportation alternatives. They will not have to know an Idaho—or a Northwest—without wild salmon.

Scout Alford reflected that “While meetings can often be tough and you don’t always find your wants reflected within the people representing you, it is still amazing to meet all representatives, senators, and allies in DC that have a hand in taking down the four lower Snake River dams.” Recognizing that all stakeholders are considered with this agreement, we know that this is the clear path forward. We can ensure that nobody gets left behind.

Danielle Scott, a chaperone on the trip and Extension Educator with the Nimiipuu Tribe, wrote about the experience… “The opportunity to take some of our newly organized Nimiipuu Youth Salmon Protectors to Washington D.C. to speak with representatives about the concerns the youth have about our salmon decline was incredible and truly life-altering. These youth, with their wisdom beyond their years, spoke about how they see less salmon on their plates at cultural ceremonies and hear from their elders about the abundance of the past.”

Youth Salmon Protectors of all backgrounds will continue to fight for our future, a future where salmon are abundant in Idaho and the Northwest. A future where Tribal Treaties are being upheld. A future where we know that our voices are being heard, because we see our advocacy lead to action. 

You can help us in this fight by taking action for salmon today! Join us in urging members of Congress to secure investments in salmon and steelhead recovery in the Columbia River Basin, and make a crucial first step in implementing the Columbia Basin Restoration Initiative. This visionary roadmap for salmon recovery is the path forward—but we need YOU to help get us there! Take action for salmon below!

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