A spokesman for the Idaho Conservation League says a recently discovered oil leak at Little Goose Dam is just one more reason why the lower Snake River dams should be removed.
The Army Corps of Engineers reported the leak on Oct. 25, after it was confirmed by maintenance staff.
The agency estimated that 300 to 600 gallons of oil may have leaked from a turbine system over the previous three months. The turbine was shut down and isolated from the river while repairs are made. Oil absorbent booms were also deployed to capture any additional leaks.
In a news release, Idaho Conservation League spokesman Mitch Cutter noted that all four lower Snake River dams are around 50 years old. According to a 2020 Corps of Engineers analysis, they also need about $30 million per year in capital repairs and replacements. (Lewiston Tribune)
