Northwest tribes, many with salmon fishing treaty rights, have experienced incredible loss following construction of the lower Snake dams and resulting decimation of wild salmon. Salmon are a cultural, spiritual and economic resource for the tribes.
A treaty between the tribes and the United States was signed in 1855. Tribes gave up territory in exchange for reservations, but retained property rights, hunting and fishing rights. The Lower Snake River Dams were built in opposition to the Palouse and Nez Perce tribes whose ancestral fishing grounds were on the River.
“…the rumble of a million voices starts with you and me
When we raise our voice as one; “Let the river run free!”