Columbia River Basin Frequently Asked Questions
Columbia River Information
By Sub-basin:
How large is the Columbia River? And why do some people refer to it as the Columbia River Basin?
The Columbia River flows south from its source in British Columbia, Canada to the Pacific Ocean. This passage runs 1,214 miles and flows through two countries and three states, Washington, Oregon and Idaho. It is the fourth largest watershed in the United States, receiving waters from seven states and one province. The largest tributary is the Snake River. The Columbia River has the second largest volume of flow of any river in the United States. Second to the Mississippi River.
What are toxics? Why should I be concerned?
Toxics are chemical that are known to have harmful effects on the health of humans or wildlife. Not all chemical are toxic. In the Columbia River Basin toxics usually means certain agents found in pesticides, outfall from mills or processing plants, that are known to be harmful to the heath of fish, other aquatic life and humans. Dioxin, furans, arsenic, and mercury are examples.
Isn’t it the job of the EPA to stop private citizens, local governments and industry from polluting?
Under the Clean Water Act EPA delegates that authority to the states. Most states have a department of ecology or environmental quality which regulates water quality and pollution. If the state is unable to bring polluters in compliance with federal standards or their own standards, which can be more stringent, the EPA is expected to take action.
Why are there so many different efforts underway on the Columbia River?
Part of the delegation of the authority to the states by the EPA to regulate environmental protection is so the states, understanding their own regulations and the regulations of the federal government, can regulate in a way that is consistent with their policies and procedures. The sheer size and geography of the Columbia River means that several jurisdictions are involved and collaborating: states, tribes, US, Canada, as well as municipalities and non-governmental organizations.
If harmful pesticides and chemicals have been outlawed for use by industry and private citizens, then why do we still have to worry about those chemicals in the river?
Even after a harmful substance has been outlawed, such as DDT, which was banned in 1972. traces of substances can still be found in sediment, water and fish tissue. This is called legacy pollution. As some chemicals breakdown they are still harmful.
Is it the EPA’s job or the job of the states and tribes to monitor toxics and protect our water bodies?
The Clean Water Act requires the EPA to oversee each state's/tribe’s water quality standards decisions. The states/tribes must comply with federal standards for each designated use of a water body and they can be more stringent if the they choose. The EPA must step in if state/tribal standards do not meet minimum requirements for designated uses or if states/tribes fail to involve the public in all the necessary ways. One of the public's roles is to bring existing or emerging water quality standards issues and concerns to the EPA's attention.
What is the difference between point source and non-point source pollution?
Point source pollution is pollution from a specific source. For example, we know that mining from runoff is point source, outfall pipes are a point source. Non-point source pollution is run-off from agriculture or livestock grazing, or storm water runoff.
What is the difference between resident fish and anadromous fish?
Resident fish are fish that live in an area of a river. They are not anadromous fish. Anadromous fish, salmon and steelhead for example, are born in a river or stream and upon maturation they migrate to the ocean and then return to spawn. Because resident fish stay in one place their entire, they maybe more inclined to absorb toxics found in water or sediment.
Do I need to worry about swimming in the Columbia or getting the water on my skin?
If regulatory agencies know of a threat to human health, they are required by law to post a warning for the public. In some cases this can illicit beach closings or a ban on fishing or shellfish harvesting. Check with your state department of health to find out if there is an advisory in your area. Similar to swimming in a pool, it is a good idea to rinse off if your skin has come in contact with river water.
What can I do to help out the effort to reduce toxics in the Columbia River basin?
Remediation and habitat restoration projects are underway in many parts of the Columbia Basin. Check the links to find out which organization/agency is at work in your area. Volunteer opportunities exist in many areas.
Is it safe to eat fish that I catch in the Columbia River and its tributaries?
States are responsible for setting their fish consumption rates as part of water quality standards. These rates are based in part on how much the average person is expected to consume and in part on levels of toxics found in fish so that the consumption rates do not pose a threat to human health.
What is an estuary?
An estuary is a wide part of a river where the salt ocean water and the fresh water river water mix. The Lower Columbia River Estuary Partnership, through the EPA’s National Estuary Program, is leading efforts to restore and protect the Lower Columbia River.
How do I find out where the Superfund sites are in my area?
Visit EPA's Superfund web page.
Where can I learn more about pesticide programs?
Visit EPA Region 10's Pesticides web page.