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A federal judge has mandated operational changes at Columbia River dams to aid endangered fish populations, impacting Montana electric utilities. The ruling requires increased water releases, potentially decreasing hydroelectric power generation crucial for utilities like the Montana Electric Cooperatives' Association (MECA) and its members, which serve over 220,000 customers.

CEO Mark Lambrecht warns of rising power costs if hydropower decreases. Environmental groups support the ruling for salmon recovery, while Montana officials express concerns about energy reliability.