Number: 1976-14
WHEREAS, Libby Dam impounded nearly 100 miles of the mainstream Kootenai River and 50 miles of tributaries; and
WHEREAS, relocation of the Burlington Northern Railroad through the Fisher River, Wolf Creek, and Fortine Creek has resulted in extensive channelization and habitat destruction for 12 miles of stream; and
WHEREAS, the opportunity for quality stream fishing continues to decline rapidly due to stream channelization, water pollution, and dam construction; and
WHEREAS, free-flowing rivers are a great natural heritage which need to be protected as part of our life style; and
WHEREAS, energy conservation and sound flood plain management are objectives this nation still has not achieved;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the National Wildlife Federation, in annual meeting assembled March 19-21, 1976, in Louisville, Ky., hereby opposes additional dams in the Kootenai and Yaak River drainages in Montana and recommends studies be authorized to determine if they qualify for classification and protection as parts of the Wild and Scenic Rivers System.