Who we are

We're a coalition of more than 140 national, state and local conservation and recreation groups that care about rivers and work hard to protect them from harmful hydropower dams.

Why hydropower reform

When we use a river to generate electricity we harm the river, often badly. The good news is that we can keep our rivers healthy and keep the lights on by bringing hydropower projects up to modern standards.

Get involved

Are the rivers you care about being harmed by hydropower? You can help them to heal by getting involved when a dam owner seeks a new operating license. Our Hydro Licensing Guide will teach you how to get started and be effective.


Science Guide


The Science Guide discusses the range of studies available to evaluate the effects of a typical hydropower project, advising on the advantages and disadvantages of an approach. Included is a matrix that catalogues all potential project effects, organized by resource area.


Dameffects

This website developed jointly by Idaho Rivers and Hydropower Reform Coalition is a powerful visual tool that explains the effects of dams on rivers and the environment. It also explains how dams and hydroprojects can be operated differently to reduce their adverse impacts.