Feds OK Redesign To Boost Migrating Salmon Survival
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission is allowing a Washington state utility to replace one of 10 aging turbines at its 900-MW Wanapum Dam on the Columbia River with a specially designed unit to increase survival of millions of juvenile salmon that migrate annually through the hydro plant.
The so-called "Kaplan" turbine has been modified to minimize uncontrolled water turbulence, which has long been a primary cause of fish injury. The goal is to give the endangered salmon "a smooth ride," says Stephen Brown, director of natural resources for the Grant County Public Utility District.