Canada and U.S. Continue Talks to Modernize Columbia River Treaty

Canada and the United States continue to work towards modernizing the Columbia River Treaty, with the 16th round of negotiations taking place on March 22 and 23 in Washington, D.C. The negotiations are focused on a variety of topics, including cooperation to support aquatic life and biodiversity in the Columbia River Basin, ongoing studies regarding salmon reintroduction, flood-risk management, and hydropower operations.

In 1961, the Columbia River Treaty was established, which requires the designation of two “entities” to carry out the Treaty – one from the United States and the other from Canada. The U.S. Entity is chosen by the President and comprises the Administrator’s Chairman and the Northwestern Division Engineer member from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. On the other hand, the Canadian Entity is appointed by the Canadian Federal Cabinet and is the British Columbia Hydro and Power Authority (B.C. Hydro).

Representatives from the Government of Canada, the Province of B.C., and the Ktunaxa, Secwepemc, and Syilx Okanagan Nations attended the negotiations. Expert advisors from the Coeur d’Alene Tribe, the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, and the Kootenai Tribe of Idaho were also present in the American delegation.

In a joint statement issued on March 24, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and U.S. President Joe Biden emphasized the importance of the Columbia River as a shared resource and pledged to intensify their work towards an agreement that will support a healthy and prosperous Columbia River Basin. The focus will be on flood-risk management, power generation, and environmental benefits that are shared equitably by both countries and the Indigenous Peoples and Tribal nations, communities, and stakeholders in this watershed.

The next round of negotiations will take place on May 16 and 17 in British Columbia. As negotiations continue, it is essential to prioritize the well-being of the Columbia River and those who rely on it. With cooperation and collaboration, Canada and the United States can work towards a modernized treaty regime that supports a healthy and prosperous future for the Columbia River Basin.

Image source U.S Government