Case Study
In 2011, Northwest RiverPartners tapped DHM to measure sentiment around hydropower in Washington, Oregon, and Idaho, with Montana added to the mix in 2024. Throughout this decade-long partnership, DHM has conducted multiple region-wide surveys, benchmarking opinions and exploring public views on new hydro-related topics.
To reach a statistically valid and representative sample of residents for the region and each state, DHM uses an online survey approach. In 2024, the research included a sample of 1,600 residents and explored broad opinions on hydropower and drilled down messaging around newly released scientific findings on salmon and steelhead populations. This two-fold approach has allowed Northwest RiverPartners to continue getting benchmark responses while also gathering essential information to speak to lawmakers on topics unique to their state. The most recent survey iteration, for example, found that 77% of residents across the region support hydropower.
The research continues to help drive Northwest RiverPartners’ communication strategy, equipping the organization with credible, timely insights to support conversations with policymakers, inform public messaging, and strengthen stakeholder engagement across the region.
The Oregon Association of Water Utilities (OAWU) tapped DHM to assess the infrastructure, financial, and operational needs of small community water systems across the state and support informed legislative decision-making.
DHM Research partners with Seattle City Light to track customer satisfaction and priorities to inform communications and outreach for energy efficiency and bill assistance programs.
DHM led efforts for the City of Bellingham as it sought to gather information on residential water utility customers and gain a deeper understanding of their priorities and preferences.