A river won
A long battle over diverting and de-watering the North
Fork of the Payette River ended quietly in October.
The last threat to the roiling torrent that is the hallmark of a drive
up Idahos scenic Highway 55 disappeared when Gem Irrigation withdrew its application
to divert water from the river for power production.
In 1991, the Idaho Legislature designated the North Fork as a protected
river. The designation banned hydropower projects, but the threat to the river didnt
disappear because Gem Irrigations application for diversion had existed since 1986.
The threat to the river catalyzed formation of Idaho Rivers United. Its
leaders organized grassroots opposition to the diversion and energetically lobbied the
legislature for protection.
The leaders of Idaho Rivers United will not retire as millionaires as a
result of their efforts. They wont end up with fat 401-Ks at retirement. Instead of
an executive suite, they will have to be satisfied with a nice rock at riverside. Few
people probably even know their names.
In an age in which the ups and downs of the stock market are reported
by the minute, its heartening to see that a group of under-funded underrated
optimists, with more interest in their kayaks than their bank accounts, can succeed.
Its also heartening to know that with enough public support,
Idahos leaders will protect whats left of the states outdoor legacy from
destruction.
Count the Payette as a river won. Count Idahoans as indebted to those
who fought to protect it.