To: President Donald Trump

President Obama: Protect Orcas by Removing Four Lower Snake River Dams

Dear President Obama,

I am concerned about the impacts fewer salmon is having on Southern Resident Orcas of the Pacific Northwest, since about 90% of their diet is salmon. In the Column/Snake River basins, Snake River dams are the single biggest problem to recovering salmon, and thus Orcas.

I understand you are considering an Executive Order to remove those dams. You have seen both economic studies and environmental data to show dam removal is the best action for people, Orcas and salmon.

I ask you to take action NOW by issuing an Executive Order to remove the 4 Lower Snake River dams. Time is of the essence here! We need to at least begin the removal process before you leave office, otherwise rescinding your order is possible after the next election.

Please, take action NOW. Issue the Executive Order to remove these Lower Snake River dams. Thank you!

Why is this important?

President Obama is considering taking bold, needed action that would help to save orcas (killer whales) in the Pacific. Orcas rely on salmon for up to ninety percent their diet, but these fish are in rapid decline. The western drought and the presence of four outdated dams are bringing the salmon and steelhead of the Snake River to the edge of extinction, and harming the ability of orcas to survive.

The best available science concludes that removing these dams and restoring a free-flowing lower Snake River would allow for the restoration of healthy salmon runs and provide a vital food source for wild orcas.