November 21, 2022
Contact:
Molly Phillips, Mainspring Conservation Trust, 828.524.2711 or mphillips@mainspringconserves.org
Chuck Ahlrichs, Northbrook Carolina Hydro II, LLC 480.551.1221 or cahlrichs@nbenergy.com
Erin McCombs, American Rivers, 828.649.7887 or emccombs@americanrivers.org
Joey Owle, Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, 828.359.6260 or joeyowle@ebci-nsn.gov
A regionally and nationally significant river restoration project is moving forward on the Oconaluftee River, where a coalition of federal, state, tribal, nonprofit and private partners is working together to remove the Ela Dam in Whittier, North Carolina.
The most recent action is the signing between Mainspring Conservation Trust and Northbrook Carolina Hydro II of an Asset Purchase Option and Sale Agreement. The agreement provides Mainspring, or its assign, the option to acquire the entire impoundment structure, lands and property for nominal value, if it determines dam removal is feasible given available funding and conditioned on receipt of approvals from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and other reviewing agencies.
The coalition, which includes the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI), the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC), the US Fish and Wildlife Service, American Rivers, Mainspring, and the Southern Environmental Law Center, among others, was initially spearheaded by EBCI Secretary of Agriculture and Natural Resources Joey Owle. Owle had approached Northbrook, Ela Dam’s owner, about removing the dam following the company’s remediation efforts after an accidental sediment release in October 2021 that affected the downstream reach of the Oconaluftee River.
“The tribe has always had an interest in restoring connectivity to our waterbodies, and the Ela Dam has disconnected our river and aquatic relatives for nearly 100 years,” said Owle as he recounted the impetus of this historic project. “When I began this position in 2017, removing Ela Dam was one of the first ideas I pitched to my staff and leadership. The accidental sediment release coincided with an unprecedented funding opportunity from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL). That, coupled with determined parties all around ready to pursue the idea of reconnecting 188 square miles of the watershed through a social and environmental justice lens, was perfect timing. I am grateful that Chuck Ahlrichs (of Northbrook) took my call in December 2021, and with a team of exceptional partners, we were able to come together to create an opportunity from the ground up.”
From that first call from EBCI, Northbrook was ready to come to the table with the partners. Nearly 100 years ago, the dam was constructed to support rural electrification but now, the social, economic, and environmental values of reestablishing a free-flowing Oconaluftee River vastly outweigh the one megawatt of output it generates. Northbrook also wanted to improve relations with organizations and agencies that work to protect and improve the nation’s rivers.
“Removing a dam is the fastest way to bring a river back to life,” said Erin McCombs, Southeast Conservation Director with American Rivers. “This project is one of the most exciting river restoration efforts in the U.S., with tremendous benefits including improved water quality, habitat for imperiled fish and wildlife, and cultural reconnection.”
According to American Rivers, 56 dams have been removed in North Carolina to restore river health. If this project is successful, it may serve as a template for how dam owners can work cooperatively with American Rivers and other partners to decommission dams when the value of a free-flowing river outweighs a dam’s power generation.
Mainspring Executive Director Jordan Smith says the EBCI-led coalition meetings have resulted in each partner bringing their organization’s best to the table to find a creative path forward. “As a land trust, we are used to owning assets,” he said. “American Rivers brings their expertise in managing dam removals while the NC Wildlife Resources Commission and US Fish and Wildlife Service have supported the initiative from day one, identifying and providing funding and prioritizing this project within their offices. And without the leadership from the EBCI and Northbrook’s willingness to essentially contribute the property to the effort, we absolutely could not move forward. This is truly a team effort.”
Removal of the dam will open 549 river miles of the Oconaluftee River and its tributaries; streams across the entire Qualla boundary and parts of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park will be connected once again to the lower Oconaluftee and Tuckasegee Rivers. Additionally, culturally important fish species will have access to spawning areas in upstream Tribal waters after being disconnected from them for nearly a century.
Mainspring’s and Northbrook’s signing of the Asset Purchase Option and Sale Agreement allows the coalition to continue its work on the next phase of project planning. With funding from the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, American Rivers is leading the design and engineering studies for dam removal while the coalition moves forward with planning and regulatory approval processes. Mainspring’s purchase option will expire in April 2023.
About American Rivers
American Rivers believes a future of clean water and healthy rivers for everyone, everywhere, is essential. Since 1973, we have protected wild rivers, restored damaged rivers and conserved clean water for people and nature. With headquarters in Washington, DC, and 300,000 supporters, members, and volunteers across the country, we are the most trusted and influential river conservation organization in the United States, delivering solutions for a better future. Because life needs rivers. www.AmericanRivers.org
November 21, 2022
Contact: Marcus Kahn, 626-298-9672
Amy Souers Kober, 503-708-1145
American Rivers announced today that Dr. Ann Willis is joining the organization as its new California Regional Director. Throughout her career she has developed and implemented science-informed strategies to conserve rivers across the state, and incorporate climate change into river management.
“As a researcher, communicator, and engineer, Ann brings an intimate understanding of California’s rivers and the threats they face. And as a whitewater guide, she brings a special brand of courage and leadership,” said Heather Taylor-Miesle, Senior Vice President for Advocacy and Regional Conservation. “We’re at a critical moment right now with rivers in California, and all of these qualities will be essential as we forge solutions for the state’s rivers and people. We are thrilled to welcome Ann to the American Rivers team.”
Most recently, Dr. Willis was a senior researcher with the U.C. Davis Center for Watershed Sciences. She has also worked as a water resources engineer with Watercourse Engineering, Inc. and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and as a whitewater raft guide.
On the Klamath River, Willis worked with partners including ranchers, conservation organizations, state and federal agencies, and tribes to develop strategies for salmon recovery and dam removal. Her work on the Sacramento-San Joaquin focused on incorporating climate change and environmental flows into the management of major flood control dams.
Willis received her Masters and Ph.D. in Civil and Environmental Engineering at U.C. Davis. She has a B.A. in Print Journalism and English Literature and Language from the University of Southern California.
“Every person who lives, eats, or drinks in California is touched by its rivers,” Dr. Willis said. “More and more, we’re embracing how healthy rivers lead to thriving communities. I’m honored to have the opportunity to develop results-oriented, on-the-ground, sustainable solutions that aligns Californians with the power of its rivers.”
Willis will start at American Rivers on November 28. She will be based in Woodland, CA.
About American Rivers
American Rivers believes a future of clean water and healthy rivers for everyone, everywhere, is essential. Since 1973, we have protected wild rivers, restored damaged rivers, and conserved clean water for people and nature. With headquarters in Washington, DC, and 300,000 supporters, members, and volunteers across the country, we are the most trusted and influential river conservation organization in the United States, delivering solutions for a better future. Because life needs rivers. www.AmericanRivers.org
National recognition celebrates progress and is a call to action for clean water
October 17, 2022
Contact: Amy Souers Kober, 503-708-1145, akober@americanrivers.org
Peter Raabe, 202-441-6174, praabe@americanrivers.org
www.AmericanRivers.org/RiverOfTheYear
(Washington) – Celebrating community leadership and progress for clean water and river health, American Rivers today named the Neuse River the “River of the Year” for 2022.
“The River of the Year honor celebrates outstanding progress toward a cleaner, healthier Neuse River that is vital to every person who lives in this region,” said Tom Kiernan, President of American Rivers. “We applaud the frontline communities and partners who speak up for the river every day and continue to push for solutions. This river is a success story that we must keep writing together.”
The national honor comes on the eve of the 50th anniversary of the Clean Water Act – bipartisan legislation that protects the fundamental right to clean water nationwide. Before the Act was signed into law in 1972, the Neuse River was choked with pollution from textile mills and other manufacturing. The federal safeguards provided by the Clean Water Act, combined with local efforts to stem polluted runoff, improve water management, and remove outdated dams have been the major drivers in the river’s ongoing recovery. Over the years, local governments and the state have invested millions to upgrade failing wastewater facilities, reduce polluted runoff, and protect critical areas of the watershed.
“The Neuse shows what’s possible when strong federal clean water safeguards meet innovative, community-led solutions,” said Samantha Krop, Sound Rivers’ Neuse Riverkeeper. “And we have more work to do. Frontline communities have long been burdened by pollution and flooding. We must uphold clean water safeguards. Now is not the time to turn back the clock on protections for clean water and public health.”
“The Neuse river is a major waterway in North Carolina, flowing through much of the state and providing clean drinking water to millions of North Carolinians,” said Senator Thom Tillis. “I will continue my work to improve our infrastructure to ensure our water sources are clean and safe for both wildlife and the people of North Carolina.”
The Neuse River flows 275 miles from the Piedmont of North Carolina to Pamlico Sound on the Atlantic coast. Roughly 2.5 million people, a quarter of North Carolina’s population, live in the Neuse River watershed, which includes Raleigh-Durham, Johnson County, Goldsboro, and New Bern. The river provides drinking water for the vast majority of the watershed’s population.
Because no dams block the river from Raleigh to the Atlantic, the river’s free-flowing nature provides excellent recreation opportunities. In 2021 the Neuse River Blueway was launched creating an interconnected network of paddle and walking trails from Raleigh to Clayton. From Smithfield, the Mountains-to-Sea Trail returns to the water as a paddle trail past the impressive 100-foot Cliffs of the Neuse canyon and ending at Havelock just before Pamlico Sound.
American Rivers underscored that while communities along the Neuse should be proud of the River of the Year honor and should celebrate the river’s progress, important work remains. Ongoing commitment from national leaders and local communities is critical to address growing challenges such as agricultural pollution, aging water infrastructure, and increased flooding driven by climate change. Systemic injustices disproportionately burden Black, Latino, Tribal Nations, Indigenous, and other communities of color with pollution and flooding. And with the Supreme Court considering Sackett v. EPA, a case that could severely weaken Clean Water Act safeguards, federal protections hang in the balance on the Neuse and nationwide.
“The Neuse River is deserving of national recognition — it’s also deserving of added protection from the ongoing threats the river faces from climate change and pollution,” said Brian Buzby, executive director of North Carolina Conservation Network. “With the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act and other federal legislation that will provide resources to our state, we see great opportunities ahead for investments that, if done equitably, will help communities up and down the Neuse improve their relationship with the river and with one another and will carry us toward a cleaner, more resilient Neuse River for generations to come.”
American Rivers urged leaders across the watershed to continue to work together to reduce pollution, and to advance just, equitable clean water solutions for all communities. The Lower Neuse Basin Association, the Upper Neuse River Basin Association and community activists will continue to play critical roles. The Environmental Protection Agency will also continue to play a vital role in supporting the improvements in the watershed driving science and investment in clean water. The additional investments coming to communities through the Infrastructure and Jobs Act and the focus that the newly launched Office of Environmental Justice at EPA will help fulfill the promise of the Clean Water Act.
“Healthy rivers are essential to all life. This River of the Year honor should serve as a rallying cry for continued progress on the Neuse, setting a positive example for rivers and communities nationwide,” Kiernan said.
American Rivers has awarded previous River of the Year honors to Ohio’s Cuyahoga River (2019) and the Delaware River (2020).
American Rivers thanks True North, presenting sponsor of River of the Year 2022.
About American Rivers
American Rivers believes a future of clean water and healthy rivers for everyone, everywhere is essential. Since 1973, we have protected wild rivers, restored damaged rivers and conserved clean water for people and nature. With headquarters in Washington, D.C., and 300,000 supporters, members and volunteers across the country, we are the most trusted and influential river conservation organization in the United States, delivering solutions for a better future. Because life needs rivers. www.AmericanRivers.org
An Assessment of Demand for Floodplain Easements in the Upper Mississippi River Basin
Contact:
Olivia Dorothy, 217-390-3658
Amy Kober, 503-708-1145
Significant new investments are needed in the Upper Mississippi River Basin to reduce agricultural damages from flooding, according to The Multiple Benefits of Floodplain Easements released today by American Rivers. In the five Upper Mississippi River Basin states – Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, and Wisconsin – flooding is the most frequent and widespread cause of crop damage. Over the past decade, flood-related agricultural damages in the five Upper Mississippi River Basin states have exceeded $8 billion, while flood prevention funding over that same time was only $267 million.
“Analysis of the USDA’s cause of loss data for the Federal Crop Insurance Program shows that flood damages have been escalating in the last two decades,” said Olivia Dorothy, Restoration Director at American Rivers. “The trends are in line with the more extreme precipitation patterns that we have observed in the region. Not only are more acres flooding, but the cost of the flood damages is also increasing.”
The report also found that the average subside per acre has also been increasing with these trends, even when controlled for inflation and number of acres enrolled. The average subside for flood damaged acres during the historic 1993 Flood was under $20. But during the 2019 Flood, the average per acre subsides for flood damages jumped to over $80.
“The report highlights how and why we need to farm differently as climate change drives more extreme precipitation events and prolonged flooding,” said Dorothy. “Farmers need more resources and options to manage land that is subject to flood damages.”
The report points out that the USDA conservation easement programs often miss flood-prone acres. The Secretary of Agriculture has declared flood-related agricultural disasters annually across the five Upper Mississippi River Basin states, yet funding for the USDA floodplain easement program has only been open to enrollment twice in the region.
The report calls for expanding the use of the USDA floodplain easement program to not only reduce long-term flood damages, but also address other environmental and economic issues in the region, including needs associated with
- Supporting local economies,
- Increasing conservation opportunities,
- Expanding flood storage areas,
- Reducing nitrogen and phosphorus pollution,
- Preventing the extinction of local species,
- Growing the use of permeant conservation easements, and
- Meeting the demand for floodplain easements in the region.
In the five Upper Mississippi River Basin states, 2,210 farmers have tried to enroll land into the USDA floodplain easement program, but only 10 percent of those applications were awarded, representing 16 percent of total acres applied.
To expand the use of the USDA floodplain easements and prevent future flood damages, American Rivers is recommending the following reforms for the upcoming 2023 Farm Bill:
- The USDA floodplain easement option should be open for annually enrollment and added to the Agricultural Conservation Easement Programs.
- The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) should implement a tracking system for their floodplain easements.
- The USDA-NRCS should collaborate with university, the U.S. Geological Survey, and other independent experts to understand the monetary value of floodplain ecosystem services.
- Congress should remove land-tenure requirements for the floodplain easement program to ensure extremely flood-prone land can be taken out of production and protected permanently.
- The USDA should work with the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to track and prioritize properties with a history of repetitive losses due to flooding.
- The USDA should develop recommendations and best management practices for farmers where flooding is becoming more frequent and widespread to reduce damages.
- The USDA-NRCS should develop science-based recommendations for restoring floodplain functionality, including recommendations on levee and dike removal or modifications.
About American Rivers
American Rivers believes a future of clean water and healthy rivers for everyone, everywhere is essential. Since 1973, we have protected wild rivers, restored damaged rivers, and conserved clean water for people and nature. With headquarters in Washington, D.C., and 300,000 supporters, members, and volunteers across the country, we are the most trusted and influential river conservation organization in the United States, delivering solutions for a better future. Because life needs rivers. www.AmericanRivers.org
September 28, 2022
Contact:
Amy Souers Kober, 503-708-1145 , akober@americanrivers.org
Gary Belan, 703-786-3442
The Supreme Court hearing in Sackett v. Environmental Protection Agency represents a precarious tipping point for clean water safeguards vital to the health and safety of millions of Americans. On October 3, the Court will hear arguments to throw out 50 years of precedence concerning how the Clean Water Act protects rivers, streams, and clean water.
Before the Clean Water Act, rivers were regularly treated as sewers, with pollution of all kinds being dumped into them – the burning Cuyahoga River is the most memorable example of the state of our rivers before the Act was passed. Should the Court rule against the Environmental Protection Agency, countless streams and wetlands would no longer be protected and polluters would be given free rein to use our nation’s waters as sewers once more.
Tom Kiernan, President of American Rivers, made the following statement:
“Life depends on rivers. We need clean water for drinking, for the food we eat, for the safety of our communities and the health of our rivers. Weakening clean water protections would be disastrous to communities, the economy and our environment. The Supreme Court must hold the line and reject this attempt to take our nation backwards. For many communities faced with poverty and unsafe water, this is quite literally an issue of life or death.
“Should the Court rule against the Environmental Protection Agency, it would be ruling against 50 years of clean water protections, 50 years of sound, common sense approaches and against everyone who depends on clean water in our rivers and streams. It would weaken EPA’s authority to protect people from pollution in rivers and streams across the country.
“Communities nationwide will face health and safety threats, with low-income communities and Black, Indigenous, Latino/a/x, and Tribal Nations facing disproportionate burdens. All life needs healthy rivers. Without strong federal protections, the rivers that are the lifeblood of our nation will suffer irreparable harm.”
September 26, 2022
Contact: Amy Souers Kober, 503-708-1145
American Rivers announced today that Sarah Dyrdahl is joining the organization as its new Northwest Regional Director. Throughout her career she has worked as an ecologist and community builder to lead river conservation initiatives and develop strategic partnerships benefitting habitat, wildlife and people.
“As an ecologist, Sarah understands the science of what rivers and wildlife need, and as a community collaborator she understands the heart of what people need,” said Heather Taylor-Miesle, Senior Vice President for Advocacy and Regional Conservation at American Rivers. “In this moment where our rivers and clean water face so many critical challenges, Sarah has what it takes to advance our bold vision and secure lasting solutions for this region’s rivers and communities. We are thrilled to welcome her to the American Rivers team.”
For the past year, Dyrdahl has served in the State Forests Division at the Oregon Department of Forestry as Aquatic Riparian Specialist and Interim Deputy Division Chief. She developed policy with a focus on habitat and drinking water, developed stream restoration plans, and served on the inaugural Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Council. From 2015-2021, she served as Executive Director of the Middle Fork Willamette Watershed Council, where she worked with the community to plan, implement and monitor stream restoration projects. Prior to that, she served as Restoration Projects Manager for the North Santiam, South Santiam, and Calapooia Watershed Councils, and the Coos Watershed Association. Dyrdahl also worked as Staff Biologist for the Ninilchik Traditional Council in Ninilchik, Alaska, performing habitat assessments and stewardship for subsistence species, focused on salmon and moose.
She received a B.S. in Biology from Oregon State University and has extensive training in river restoration practice and advancing equity, diversity, inclusion, and justice in the environmental space.
“The Pacific Northwest is defined by water, and our health, well-being and future is inextricably linked to our rivers. For me, there is nothing more satisfying than building community around being in right relationship with the land and water. The threads of joy in my work are the authentic partnership, innovation and dedication to address complex problems. Our rivers and communities need bold, inclusive, equitable solutions, and I’m energized to work with our partners and supporters to achieve ambitious goals.”
Dyrdahl begins at American Rivers today, and will be based in Eugene, Oregon.
About American Rivers
American Rivers believes a future of clean water and healthy rivers for everyone, everywhere, is essential. Since 1973, we have protected wild rivers, restored damaged rivers and conserved clean water for people and nature. With headquarters in Washington, DC, and 300,000 supporters, members, and volunteers across the country, we are the most trusted and influential river conservation organization in the United States, delivering solutions for a better future. Because life needs rivers. www.AmericanRivers.org
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American Rivers statement on release of final Murray-Inslee report
August 25, 2022
Contact: Amy Souers Kober, 503-708-1145
Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) and Washington Governor Jay Inslee released their final report today examining how to replace the hydropower, irrigation, and transportation services of the four federal dams on the lower Snake River. Senator Murray and Governor Inslee’s final report and recommendations make it clear that dam removal is necessary to restore a healthy, free-flowing river and recover endangered salmon runs, which are essential to Northwest Tribal Nations and the region’s economy.
Kyle Smith, Snake River Director for American Rivers, made the following statement:
“This report is a call to our entire region to roll up our sleeves, have the tough conversations, and get to work on specific solutions with a timetable that works for everyone. Communities are hurting and we need answers and action now.”
“Investing in the Northwest’s infrastructure and replacing the lower Snake dams’ services is essential before the dams are removed. Our region must take the lead on a plan now, or else somebody else will dictate our future. We need clean affordable energy, reliable transportation to get goods to market, and thriving agriculture. We also need abundant, harvestable salmon and steelhead runs. Today’s report is an important step toward gathering necessary information and crafting a collaborative, pragmatic solution.”
“We are grateful to Senator Murray and Governor Inslee for their leadership in defining the path forward. Their work, along with the efforts of other members of Congress from both sides of the aisle, is creating important momentum towards a lasting solution for the Snake River and all of the people who depend on it. The Biden administration’s recent commitments on salmon recovery and honoring treaties is encouraging, and increases the urgency for a collaborative, regionally-led solution. American Rivers is dedicated to working with anyone committed to the health and future of the river, its salmon, people and economy.”
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Contact:
Jeff Odefey, American Rivers, 415.589.0642, JOdefey@americanrivers.org
Becky Hammer, Natural Resources Defense Council, 202.513.6254, rhammer@nrdc.org Bruce Reznik, Los Angeles Waterkeeper, (619) 851-9997, bruce@lawaterkeeper.org Sean Bothwell, California Coastkeeper Alliance 949-291-3401, sbothwell@cacoastkeeper.org
LOS ANGELES – In response to petitions filed by American Rivers, NRDC (Natural Resources Defense Council), and Los Angeles Waterkeeper (Petitioners), the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board (Regional Board) have proposed the nation’s first requirement for certain commercial, industrial, and institutional (CII) sites to reduce polluted stormwater discharges in two Los Angeles County watersheds that are heavily polluted by zinc and copper. The agencies are accepting public comments on the new CII permit through September 9.
Polluted stormwater running off the parking lots and rooftops of CII properties, such as big box stores and large distribution centers, is largely unregulated, forcing local governments to bear the responsibility of cleaning up impacted waters. In many cases, municipal efforts have been insufficient to restore these waterways to a healthy condition. Recognizing the need for action, in 2015 the Petitioners requested that EPA direct CII sites to obtain Clean Water Act permits that would reduce the amount of pollution that they dump into the Alamitos Bay/Los Cerritos Channel Watershed and the Dominguez Channel and Los Angeles/Long Beach Inner Harbor Watershed. In connection with the petition, the groups submitted detailed evidence establishing that privately owned CII sites were contributing to widespread violations of water quality standards in the two watersheds at issue. As a result of these repeated violations, the waterways are unsafe for human use and create risks of health impacts from fish consumption or recreation, in addition to harming local wildlife.
After EPA declined to take action, the Petitioners successfully went to court and obtained a precedential order requiring stormwater from CII sites in these watersheds to be regulated. The steps taken this month by EPA Region 9 and the Regional Board to implement that court order demonstrate meaningful leadership to achieve healthier waterways for Angelenos.
The CII permit marks a new generation in stormwater permitting, building on lessons learned over the past decades of stormwater regulation. The CII permit applies to privately-owned CII sites with at least 5 acres of impervious surfaces, which account for 32% of the stormwater pollution that enters the two watersheds at issue. The CII permit provides three clear and concise paths to compliance, allowing every permittee to understand their legal obligation to reduce contamination. It addresses a currently unregulated source of stormwater pollution, ensuring property owners do their fair share to control pollution generated from their property and lessening costs and regulatory burdens for local governments. The new CII permit also encourages collaboration between CII owners to build green infrastructure projects that will improve water quality, contribute to a sustainable source of water supply and build more resilient communities. Finally, the CII permit is forward-thinking because it creates a funding mechanism for local governments to build planned but unfunded stormwater pollution control projects.
While the CII permit is a significant step towards achieving water quality standards in Los Angeles, it is only a first step. The state needs to do more to regulate all privately-owned CII facilities across California that discharge significant amounts of stormwater pollutants into our waters. By expanding the CII permit and reducing water pollution statewide, EPA and the State of California can make good on their obligations to ensure that all Californians have fishable, swimmable waters.
“This moment has been long in coming, and we’re excited that our collaboration with EPA and the Water Boards has led to real progress toward healthier urban waters in California,” says Jeff Odefey, of American Rivers’ Clean Water Supply Program. “Hopefully this permit will be a model for action across California and the rest of the nation.”
“The conventional approach to cleaning up stormwater – placing the burden on local governments – isn’t fair, and it isn’t working,” says Becky Hammer, Deputy Director of Federal Water Policy for NRDC. “It’s time to try something new. Private properties that contribute to water quality problems need to play a role in the shared effort of restoring our waterways to full health. This draft permit embodies the kind of cutting-edge, collaborative strategy we need, and we’re excited to see it adopted and implemented.”
“We are pleased to see the release of this innovative permit that finally addresses a key source of polluted urban runoff throughout Los Angeles, and simultaneously creates opportunities to enhance local water supplies,” says Bruce Reznik, Executive Director for Los Angeles Waterkeeper. “We look forward to working with the Regional Board and the State Water Board to ensure this permit, and any forthcoming statewide commercial permit, helps achieve clean waterways in our region and elsewhere as soon as possible.”
“We applaud the Water Boards’ initiative to modernize stormwater permitting in California while also encouraging green infrastructure in highly urban communities,” says Sean Bothwell, Executive Director for California Coastkeeper Alliance. “The Los Angeles CII permit should be a model for the rest of the state, and we are hopeful that current legislation (AB 2106 – R. Rivas) will result in the adoption of a statewide CII permit.”
The Preliminary Residual Designation released by EPA can be found here.
The Draft CII Stormwater Permit released by the Regional Board can be found here.
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More work needed for rivers and climate justice
August 8, 2022
Contact: Sinjin Eberle, 720-373-0864
American Rivers today applauded the Senate for passing the historic Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, which represents the largest climate action in history. The bill contains $369 billion for climate and energy provisions, including $4 billion to combat drought in the western U.S.
Tom Kiernan, President of American Rivers, made the following statement:
“From the flooding in Kentucky to the drought crisis in the Southwest, communities are already feeling the devastating and costly impacts of climate change. In addition to drastically reducing emissions, we must protect and restore the rivers our communities need to survive and thrive.
“This bill is a historic step forward, and the work is far from finished. Along with the forward-thinking provisions, the deal also includes investment in fossil fuel infrastructure, as well as a possible agreement to weaken vital safeguards such as the Clean Water Act. We must stay vigilant, defending our rivers and clean drinking water supplies from harm and ensuring impacted communities are in control of their futures.
“Rivers are the source of powerful, equitable, cost-effective climate solutions. A healthy river is a community’s first line of defense against climate impacts, offering clean drinking water, flood protection, sustainable food, and safe places to stay cool and connect to nature and culture.
“We urge the House to get this legislation over the finish line and deliver on the climate solutions our communities urgently need. And we urge President Biden to declare a climate emergency to advance just, equitable solutions for rivers and communities nationwide.
August 4, 2022
Contact: Amy Souers Kober, 503-708-1145
American Rivers announced today that Kyle Smith will join the organization as its new Snake River director. The new position demonstrates the organization’s strong commitment to advancing solutions for the Snake River that recover salmon runs, honor treaties and commitments with Tribal Nations, invest in clean energy and agriculture, and strengthen communities across the Northwest.
“We are thrilled to welcome Kyle to American Rivers,” said Heather Taylor-Miesle, Senior Vice President for Advocacy and Regional Conservation at American Rivers. “With his strong personal ties to the Snake River and its communities, and his extensive expertise building partnerships for conservation, Kyle is a tremendous addition to our Northwest regional team, and the Snake River campaign.”
Smith grew up in and around the Snake River watershed. He has a deep connection to the river and understands the costs and benefits that the four federal dams on the lower Snake have brought to the region. An avid hunter and angler, he is passionate about finding durable salmon recovery and river restoration solutions.
Most recently, Smith served as the Community Engagement Coordinator for State Forests for the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF), where he played a senior leadership role creating strategies to improve outreach and strengthen partnerships, and co-chaired ODF’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Council. Before that, Kyle was Oregon Field Coordinator with Trout Unlimited, working with industry, businesses, elected leaders, anglers, farmers and ranchers to develop and implement long-term plans to conserve native fish habitat.
He received a Bachelor of Science, Environmental Science, and Regional Planning from Washington State University. He has a Master of Public Administration, Environmental Science and Policy, from Columbia University School of International and Public Affairs, and he received a Doctor of Jurisprudence from University of Oregon School of Law.
“I’m honored to join the team at American Rivers to work on what I see as the most important and exciting river restoration opportunity in the country,” said Smith. “I look forward to learning from Tribes and other leaders who have been at the forefront of Snake River salmon recovery efforts for decades, as well as the communities, businesses, anglers and farmers who all have a vital stake in this river’s future. I’m ready to get to work.”
Smith will start at American Rivers on August 10.
About American Rivers
American Rivers believes a future of clean water and healthy rivers for everyone, everywhere is essential. Since 1973, we have protected wild rivers, restored damaged rivers and conserved clean water for people and nature. With headquarters in Washington, D.C., and 300,000 supporters, members and volunteers across the country, we are the most trusted and influential river conservation organization in the United States, delivering solutions for a better future. Because life needs rivers. www.AmericanRivers.org
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July 29, 2022
Contact: Amy Souers Kober, 503-708-1145
American Rivers applauded the deal between Senator Joe Manchin and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer to advance the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, which would be the biggest climate action in history. The bill contains $369 billion for climate and energy provisions.
Tom Kiernan, President of American Rivers, made the following statement:
“Devastating and costly examples of the climate crisis are already playing out on rivers nationwide. We must drastically reduce emissions to avoid the worst of climate impacts and also protect and restore rivers to buffer communities from the impacts that are already upon us.”
“Rivers are the source of powerful, equitable, cost-effective climate solutions. A healthy river is a community’s first line of defense against climate impacts, offering clean drinking water, flood protection, sustainable food, and safe places to stay cool and connect to nature and culture. We urge Congress to get this legislation over the finish line and deliver on solutions our communities urgently need.”
In addition, American Rivers sent a letter applauding President Biden for taking additional administrative actions to address climate change, and outlined key investments needed for healthy rivers and clean water. The letter states:
“Clean water and healthy hydrologic systems are vital to strong communities, and this will be even more true as our climate continues to change so bold action is required. Declaring a national climate emergency will unlock the broad powers of the National Emergency Act (NEA) to improve water quality, reduce wildfires, enhance floodplain restoration, and protect vulnerable communities from climate change. We write to you today to urge your administration to speed up investments to scale, transform urban environments to be more climate resilient, make sure every community can act, assess and conserve sources of freshwater in public lands, and reduce emissions everywhere and tear down barriers to action.”
Read the full letter here.
Cahokia Heights leaders fail to call for state and federal aid, leaving residents in danger
July 28, 2022
Contacts:
Nicole Nelson, Equity Legal Services, 618-693-9800
Jackson, Metropolitan St. Louis Equal Housing & Opportunity Council, 314-534-5800
Olivia Dorothy, American Rivers, 217-390-3658
Meleah Geertsma, NRDC, 312-651-7904
In the wake of historic flooding in the St. Louis metro area, Equity Legal Services, Metropolitan St. Louis Equal Housing & Opportunity Council, American Rivers, Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), Earthjustice today said the flood underscores major failings in disaster response for the people of Cahokia Heights, Illinois, arising from decades of racism that have left this community stranded and which will only increase with climate change. The groups urged municipal, state and federal leaders to help residents of Cahokia Heights, who have been disproportionately impacted by flooding and compounding sewage and drinking water crises. Even as the rest of Metro St. Louis has seen the floodwaters recede, residents of Cahokia Heights are facing elevated floodwaters and sewage in their homes – evidence that local, state and federal disaster systems are failing the communities most in need.
“Cahokia Heights has long been plagued by flooding, even with the slightest rain,” said Nicole Nelson, Executive Director of Equity Legal Services. “Our community has been persistently neglected by municipal leaders who have mismanaged our stormwater and sewage infrastructure to the point that our homes are frequently flooded with raw sewage. For too many years, the rest of the state and our country has abandoned or given up on this Black and very low-income community, leaving it to fend for itself. More recent commitments are promising, but real changes haven’t been made yet and more contributors need to take responsibility for their impacts.”
Cahokia Heights, Illinois, is located in the St. Louis metro area, where, according to the National Weather Service, the area received over 9-inches of rain in a 24-hour period from July 25-26. Rain storms are deemed “extreme” when they exceed 1-inch in a 24-hour period. Cahokia Heights was established May 6, 2021 after the communities of Cahokia, Alorton, and Centreville voted to consolidate.
“The flooding didn’t allow me to leave my home until this morning,” said Mr. Earlie Fuse, a homeowner in Cahokia Heights. “And I was not able to use my commode or take a bath for three days. About 9 or 10 feet of water is still standing in my basement and foul-smelling water is still rising from the manhole covers of the combined sewer systems.”
According to IEMA, municipal officials in Cahokia Heights have only requested very limited assistance from the Illinois Emergency Management Agency, a request that was not made until several days after the event and following pressure from residents, local groups, and organizations. This lapse in assistance is forcing property owners to invest thousands of dollars in pumps, hotel rooms, bleach, bottled water and other equipment and supplies necessary to deal with the flooding.
“IEMA should have been deploying assistance services in our community before the rain started,” said Kalila Jackson, attorney at Metropolitan St. Louis Equal Housing & Opportunity Council. “We are asking municipal, state and federal officials to do everything in their power to help Cahokia Heights and the many other Black communities in the Metro East that have suffered from racist disinvestment get the resources they need to respond to this still active flood event.”
The Centreville neighborhood of what is now Cahokia Heights is 95 percent African American and the median household income is $23,500. The area was redlined during the New Deal because the population was 80 percent African American, the community lacked public transportation, and homes were poorly constructed. As with most redlined communities, the city has suffered from intentional race-based disinvestment, as federal finance policies prohibited investments in Black communities. These racist lending policies caused rapid deterioration of homes and infrastructure while allowing white families to flee to “better” neighborhoods and concentrating Black families into the area. For decades, the community has been plagued with flooding caused by stormwater and by overflows of sewage that harm residents and pollute waterways.
“It is unconscionable that any community in 2022 would be living with persistent flooding and raw sewage in their homes and yards,” said Olivia Dorothy, American Rivers. “But the flooding in Centreville and other parts of Cahokia Heights illustrates that our disaster response and management system is broken and is failing to address the needs of those most affected by these failures.”
“It’s bad enough when the sewage system breaks or the flood management fails, but when added together it is a potentially lethal combination,” says Earthjustice attorney Debbie Chizewer. “These compounding problems are creating a vicious cycle of pollution and flooding that endangers families, destroys property, and contaminates the water in Centreville.”
“The systems we have in place to address major water crises perpetuate vast disparities among local communities that have been created by decades of racial segregation and disinvestment,” said Meleah Geertsma, Director of Environmental Justice Policy at NRDC. “These systems work for some – but not for too many others. Greater accountability and coordination is needed at all levels of government to ensure that every resident lives without fear of flooding and raw sewage in and around their homes, and with access to safe, sufficient, and affordable drinking water.”
As residents fight to recover, more rain is in the forecast for the St. Louis metro area this week. According to NOAA and the Fourth National Climate Assessment, the Midwest is already experiencing and expected to see further increases in precipitation and more frequent extreme precipitation events that cause flooding.
Additional Resources:
Learn more about flooding in Centreville, IL at https://www.floodedandforgotten.com/
