Releasing cool water protects fish in the Grand Canyon. That comes at cost to hydropower
Federal officials are considering cool water releases from Glen Canyon Dam to protect the humpback chub, a threatened fish species. This decision, however, poses a challenge as it would reduce hydropower generation, impacting electricity costs for consumers. The Bureau of Reclamation is weighing ecological benefits against financial implications as it prepares to announce a decision soon.
- ▪Cool water releases are proposed to protect the humpback chub from predatory fish.
- ▪The Colorado River Basin is experiencing record low water levels due to climate change and overuse.
- ▪Utilities warn that the cool water releases would increase costs for customers as they would need to purchase alternative energy.
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ABC NewsLiveVideoShowsGood Morning AmericaShopGMAInterest Successfully AddedWe'll notify you here with news aboutTurn on desktop notifications for breaking stories about interest? OffOnStream onReleasing cool water protects fish in the Grand Canyon. That comes at cost to hydropowerFederal officials are considering cool water releases for the third consecutive year at Glen Canyon Dam in Northern Arizona this summer to safeguard the humpback chub, a federally protected fishByDORANY PINEDA Associated Press and BRITTANY PETERSON Associated PressMay 26, 2026, 9:00 AM1:12FILE - Utah State University master's student Barrett Friesen steers a boat near Glen Canyon dam on Lake Powell on June 7, 2022, in Page, Ariz.
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