Columbia River History

John Harrison, former member of the Council's Public Affairs team, passed away on February 7, 2025. John worked for the Council from 1990 until he retired in 2022. He was a cherished and respected member of our community, who touched many lives and will be remembered for his kind nature and deep knowledge of and connection to our region.

He created this set of Columbia River History pages which we continue to update and maintain for researchers, historians, students and all Columbia River enthusiasts.

History Corner

Each Spotlight newsletter includes a history highlight. See some below, or sign up for the newsletter (below) to get them each month.

December 2024: How the Wilderness Act came to be, and why it remains so vital.

November 2024: Ernest Hemingway's connection to Idaho and its fish and wildlife.

Topics to the left were originally written by John Harrison, and continue to be updated by the Council’s Public Affairs division.

includes interactive map

Integrating energy and the environment in the Columbia River Basin

See what the Council is up to.

Explore News By Topic

The Council works to protect and enhance fish and wildlife in the Columbia River Basin. Its Fish & Wildlife Program guides project funding by the Bonneville Power Administration.

The Fish and Wildlife Program

Independent Review Groups

Forums and Workgroups

Topics

The Council develops a plan, updated every five years, to assure the Pacific Northwest of an adequate, efficient, economical, and reliable power supply.

The Northwest Power Plan

Technical tools and models

Advisory Committees

Topics

ARCHIVES

Recent and Upcoming Meetings

Browse reports and documents relevant to the Council's work on fish and wildlife and energy planning, as well as administrative reports.

REPORTS BY TOPIC