[5] Upriver Tribes Want In On BiOp Remand Talks

The Spokane Tribe has filed for amicus status in the ongoing litigation over the hydro BiOp. In an Oct. 26 filing, the tribe says it "possesses long-term interests in the survival/recovery of ESA-listed species, and it offers a unique perspective to these proceedings." The Kootenai Tribe of northern Idaho has already weighed in with federal defendants.

The Spokane Tribe is concerned about possible changes to reservoir operations behind Grand Coulee stemming from BiOp settlement talks that may call for more flow augmentation and flood control from Lake Roosevelt.

The tribe says large fluctuations in reservoir elevations could adversely impact resident fish populations that were established as part of an economic development program for mitigating the loss of salmon above Coulee.

Drawdowns, water pulsing and more flow augmentation could also adversely impact tribal grave sites and the stability of underwater toxic pollutants on tribal lands.

The Colville Tribes announced Oct. 28 that they will also file for amicus status in the case. In a message sent to attorneys involved in the proceedings, reservation attorney Stephen Suagee said, "The Colville Tribes has significant rights and interests that may be affected by the ongoing proceedings in this litigation, and has previously participated as amicus in similar litigation before Judge Marsh."-B. R.

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