Lessons from the Klamath: Inspiring Action for the Snake River

This summer, Youth Salmon Protectors from the Boise Chapter and the Nimiipuu (Nez Perce) Chapter traveled west to the mouth of the Klamath, where we witnessed the river being reborn. The Klamath River, which until recently had four dams blocking fish passage to more than 400 miles of its waters, is now the site of the largest river restoration project in history. Our youth learned that this type of change goes beyond policy and billionaires. We learned a story of resistance, resilience, Indigenous power, cultural strength, and environmental justice being served. We left with a renewed sense of responsibility and determination for the restoration of the Snake River.Our trip began on the water, rafting and kayaking the final miles of the undammed Klamath River. We paddled alongside Indigenous youth from the basin, students from the Tribes along the river that were completing the final stretch of a thirty-day journey from the river’s headwaters to the ocean. The air breathed a powerful sense of connection to the river and to each other. It was such an honor to be on the water together, free-flowing and alive; this experience was inspiring and unforgettable.Throughout the weekend, we attended a Klamath River Symposium, where we learned about the decades of organizing that made this historic effort possible. We heard from Tribal leaders, lawyers, youth activists, and community organizers. These experts shared stories of grassroots efforts and political strategies that were used for 20 decades to elevate this issue in the public sphere and apply pressure on decision makers. We also learned there’s still a lot of work needed in the Upper Klamath Basin, where two dams still remain where water quality and fish passage issues persist. The sessions led to meaningful conversations among Youth Salmon Protectors about ideas we could replicate in our fight for Lower Snake River dam removal. Some key takeaways for our Youth Salmon Protectors were that dam removal is not just about fish; it’s about Tribal sovereignty, justice, and restoring relationships between people and place—all while honoring those who came before us and protecting those yet to come. The Klamath’s restoration is not just about salmon returning, but about the restoration of culture and identity that have been rooted in these lands since time immemorial.The weekend was also filled with celebration. We joined the community in drumming, dancing, and sharing meals. It was clear that the river is more than a resource; it builds community. Tribal Elders spoke about the long fight to bring the dams down, while youth carried that legacy forward. At every moment, it was clear: this movement was led by the Tribes whose lives are intertwined with the salmon. Back home, the Snake River remains burdened by dams that block salmon runs and threaten the cultures and livelihoods of the Tribes who depend on them. The challenge is great, but witnessing the Klamath’s restoration showed us that bold change is possible. We learned the importance of centering Tribal leadership, just as the Yurok, Karuk, and Klamath Tribes have done with strength and collaboration. Restoring a river takes a broad coalition, bringing together students, Indigenous leadership, and community members alike. Most of all, we understood the need for determination and persistence, even when progress feels slow or difficult. The Klamath’s story proved that healing can happen when communities come together with courage and commitment. We carry that spirit with us as we fight for the future of our Snake River.