The Northwest Power Planning Council put out a call for help in redefining
its role. It got an earful Wednesday with panelists alternately questioning
the need for the Council’s existence and challenging it to take a more
forceful role on energy-related and fish and wildlife recovery issues.

In a discussion paper, "The Role of the Northwest Power Planning
Council," released last month, the Council reflects on its past and
contemplates its future. The Council was created …