Washington DC, 20 May 2023 (TDI): The United States (US) government recently announced a virtual listening session scheduled for Wednesday, May 31, from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. (PST) to engage the public in discussions about the modernization of the Columbia River Treaty regime.
The listening session aims to provide an opportunity for individuals and communities to voice their perspectives, concerns, and ideas related to the ongoing negotiations.
Following the successful 17th round of negotiations between the United States (US) and Canada in Kelowna, BC, the two delegations discussed several key issues, including flood risks, hydropower operations, flexibility in dam operations, Tribal and Indigenous input, and the enhancement of ecosystem provisions. These discussions highlight the commitment of both countries to balance ecosystem health, economic considerations, and flood risk management.
Also Read: US-Canada joint statement on shared priorities
During the negotiations, the delegations visited the kł cp̓əlk̓ stim hatchery near Penticton, BC, where they participated in a sockeye salmon release ceremony hosted by the Syilx Okanagan Nation. This collaborative effort exemplifies the transboundary cooperation required to rebuild and reintroduce sockeye salmon populations in the Okanogan sub-basin of the Columbia basin.
Led by the US Department of State, the US negotiating team includes representatives from the Bonneville Power Administration, the US Army Corps of Engineers Northwestern Division, the US Department of the Interior, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The expertise of advisors from the Coeur d’Alene Tribe, the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, and the Kootenai Tribe of Idaho is also integral to the delegation’s work.
Also Read: Romanian Foreign Minister held talks with US Officials
So, the upcoming virtual listening session aims to provide an inclusive platform for all stakeholders to contribute to the modernization efforts of the Columbia River Treaty regime.
The US government is committed to transparent and collaborative negotiations that reflect the interests and concerns of all those affected by the treaty regime. The public’s input is crucial to ensuring a comprehensive and equitable agreement that addresses the complex challenges posed by the management of the Columbia River system.
Notably, the next negotiation session between the US and Canada is scheduled for June, building upon the progress made during the 17th round. The ongoing collaboration and engagement fostered by these negotiations are vital in shaping the future of the Columbia River Treaty regime.
