Although the three-dam Hells Canyon Complex was built mainly to generate electricity, it is operated with respect for multiple uses, including:

• Flood control
• Salmon spawning and protection
• Bass and crappie spawning
• Recreation
• Downstream navigation for jet boaters and rafters

People often raise questions and concerns about Idaho Power's operation of the Hells Canyon Complex and Brownlee Reservoir and the way these operations affect how the public is able to use the recreational facilities of the complex.