IRU River RAT Salmon Workshop Recap: 36 attend discussion & workshop at Payette Brewing

Last Thursday, 1/17, 36 people attended Idaho Rivers United’s River RAT (River Advocacy Training) workshop on Salmon and Steelhead at Payette Brewing. The workshop focused on the history of the Lower Snake River, Idaho’s salmon and steelhead, and ways to engage in grassroots advocacy for salmon and steelhead restoration.

Stephen Pfeiffer, IRU’s Salmon Conservation Associate, gave an overview of the history of Idaho’s salmon and steelhead runs, the science behind the issue, and the best options for restoring Idaho’s wild salmon and steelhead. During the Q&A, attendees asked several challenging questions and contributed to the conversation.  

Afterward, upcoming opportunities to advocate for salmon and the role of advocacy in salmon restoration were discussed. Three main avenues of advocacy that were focused on were Letters to the Editor, writing elected officials, and engaging in written and verbal public comment. Resources, tips, and guides were provided, as well as contacts for elected officials, press, and media. 

The workshop also served as an opportunity to prepare for giving public comment at the Governor’s Salmon and Steelhead Work Group meeting on Friday, January 17th. The upcoming Draft Environmental Impact Statement for the Columbia and Lower Snake River system was also discussed, which is projected for release in late February. Workshops on salmon advocacy and making a public comment for the Draft Environmental Impact Statement will be scheduled after the document is released. 

We are grateful for everyone who attended the workshop. Your investment and enthusiasm for our wild fish was inspiring. We look forward to seeing you at future events and workshops!

CLICK HERE for more information on upcoming events and workshops.