In truth, the tribes' lawsuit probably has little chance of success. In recent years there have been four separate actions against utility companies by Native American tribes. On each occasion, the courts have ruled in favor of the power company.
But the dispute is proving hugely embarrassing. The dams produce 150MW of electricity, only 2 percent of PacifiCorp's output.
Tribal leaders met Scottish-Power's directors on Thursday and were yesterday allowed to speak at the meeting. A company spokesman said tersely: "We held constructive talks on a very complex subject."
The tribes are hoping for progress. Hillman said: "They told us we did not need to come. But for dec-ades they have ignored us. Maybe now they will listen."
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