Resource uses in the Kootenai River Basin included hydroelectric power generation, mining and mineral processing, logging, lumber and pulp production, recreation, agriculture, urban development and transportation (KRN 2000). Human induced effects related to these resource uses are well documented (Marotz et al. 1998; KRN 2000, KRSS 2000). Libby Dam, constructed in 1972, has had a profound impact on the entire Kootenai River Basin. The dam provides the outlet for Libby (Koocanusa) Reservoir and although there are beneficial impacts of the dam (i.e. flood regulation, silt reduction and power generation) there are also a significant number of known negative impacts on fish and wildlife (KRN 2000). These include nutrient stripping, fish habitat alteration and loss, altered downstream temperatures and dissolved gas levels, decreased flushing and dilution of contaminants and erosion due to power peaking. Presently, basin-wide efforts are being made to reduce, eliminate or mitigate the negative impacts of these effects on fish and wildlife. For example, the Boundary County Resource Advisory Council, also referred to as RAC groups, has been formed in Boundary County, Idaho to deal directly with local issues surrounding losses to fish and wildlife resources. A similar group has also formed in Lincoln County, Montana, and they have approved funding assistance for the KRN sponsored Grave Creek restoration project (Phase II). Throughout the basin and potential mitigation projects to enhance native populations have been compiled and restoration efforts are being implemented.
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