Riparian areas (trees and bushes adjacent to the river) are essential habitat for wildlife.
The creation of Lower Granite Reservoir in 1975 flooded these areas, causing the loss of over 98.7% of our game birds, 96.8% of our songbirds, and 96.2% of our fur-bearing animals. When the river becomes free-flowing again, these fertile areas will naturally re-establish. This means birds and big game will repopulate the areas and favorite hunting spots will come back.
“Struggle for the Snake (1971).”
Clip from video produced by Washington State University during the construction of Lower Granite Dam. It captures the sense of loss locals had over the resulting loss of wildlife.
Bird Hunting
Key game bird species in the Snake River corridor include:
- Chukar and Hungarian partridge
- California quail
- Ring-necked pheasants,
- Canada geese
- Mallards
- Mourning Dove
Big Game
Native big game species in the lower Snake River Valley near Lewiston, Idaho, include white-tailed deer, mule deer, elk, black bear and mountain lion. The rugged river canyon also supports bighorn sheep.
