Public Power, Private Dams

Discover the intricate dynamics of environmental policy in Karl Boyd Brooks' compelling book, Public Power, Private Dams. Published by the University of Washington Press in 2009, this insightful paperback spans 250 pages and delves into the fierce battles over water management in the United States. Following World War II, a coalition of irrigators, private-power executives, and state politicians successfully opposed federal plans for a massive dam on the Snake River in Idaho. This unexpected alliance not only preserved the region's high deserts and mountain rivers but also highlighted the importance of local control in environmental decision-making. Brooks expertly navigates the complex interplay between private companies and public interest, making this book a must-read for anyone interested in hydroelectric power, nature conservation, and the future of our natural resources.