67 



government corporation to make BPA more efficient. Similarly, we 

 should not rush to make BPA a government corporation without 

 resolving current conflicts over fish and power. 



Conclusion 



American Rivers believes it would not be in the best interests 

 of the salmon, the ratepayers, or the region to transform BPA into 

 a government corporation at this time. BPA should be made to get 

 its house in order before making such a fundamental change. Before 

 proceeding further, BPA should be required to accept its fish and 

 wildlife responsibilities as a cost of doing business; negotiate 

 a formal settlement of Columbia Basin fish flow and passage 

 disputes; adopt a least cost plan for power and for fish; and 

 eliminate its fish and wildlife bureaucracy. 



These four tasks can be accomplished through leadership and 

 direction. The Northwest does not have to choose between power and 

 fish production as it moves forward. With leadership and 

 direction, we can produce both of these renewable resources in the 

 Columbia Basin. 



American Rivers looks forward to working with the Task Force 

 as it prepares its recommendations for BPA's future. Please feel 

 free to call upon American Rivers with any additional questions you 

 may have. 



