The Washington Association of Wheat Growers (WAWG) applauds the June 12 Presidential Memorandum revoking the Dec. 14, 2023, Memorandum of Understanding filed by the Biden administration.
“We appreciate the efforts of the Trump administration to ensure that the dams remain intact while protecting the integrity of the river system and salmon populations. Washington’s wheat industry relies on the continued operation of dams along the Columbia-Snake River System,” said WAWG Executive Director Michelle Hennings. “Over 60 % of Washington wheat exports utilize the river system, which is essential for supporting a thriving overseas export market along with providing nearly 4,000 jobs in the region.”
WAWG has been engaged on this issue for many years and is encouraged by the actions of the administration to protect the dams. The actions taken through this announcement reflect an understanding of not only the needs of family farmers and ranchers, but the totality of the regional economy. We look forward to working with the Trump administration to protect critical transportation networks for U.S. agriculture products as well as the many other benefits the dams provide, such as clean energy generation and recreational access.
WAWG thanks Congressman Dan Newhouse for his long-standing advocacy of Marine Highway 84 and as well as support from Congressman Michael Baumgartner and the rest of the Washington state congressional delegation for their continued leadership in Washington, D.C., to protect the integrity of the Columbia Basin River System, particularly the lower Snake River dams.
Commented