Judge rules on toxic algae regulations
June 16, 2008
GRANTS PASS, Ore. (AP) — A judge has ordered California water regulators to reconsider whether they have the power to regulate toxic algae coming from behind hydroelectric dams on the Klamath River. Indian tribes, salmon fishermen and the group Klamath Riverkeeper have been campaigning to force Portland-based utility PacifiCorp to remove the dams to help struggling salmon runs. One of their arguments is that toxic algae growing in reservoirs behind the dams is bad for fish as well as people.
The North Coast Water Quality Control Board had initially turned down the groups' petition to control the algae, saying it was an issue for federal dam regulators. But Sonoma County Superior Judge Elaine Rushing told them to reconsider in light of a recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling.
GRANTS PASS, Ore. (AP) — A judge has ordered California water regulators to reconsider whether they have the power to regulate toxic algae coming from behind hydroelectric dams on the Klamath River. Indian tribes, salmon fishermen and the group Klamath Riverkeeper have been campaigning to force Portland-based utility PacifiCorp to remove the dams to help struggling salmon runs. One of their arguments is that toxic algae growing in reservoirs behind the dams is bad for fish as well as people.
The North Coast Water Quality Control Board had initially turned down the groups' petition to control the algae, saying it was an issue for federal dam regulators. But Sonoma County Superior Judge Elaine Rushing told them to reconsider in light of a recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling.