The Bureau of Reclamation will hold a public scoping meeting for the proposed Interim Operations of Ririe Reservoir and Dam on January 11 in Idaho Falls, Idaho. The intent of this study is to determine if winter operations can be modified to allow for additional water storage in Ririe Reservoir through the winter, while also providing adequate downstream flood protection.

Ririe Dam, completed in 1977, is located on the Willow Creek drainage about 15 miles northeast of Idaho Falls.

The 3-5 year study will analyze flood control storage and winter water release scenarios under various conditions. Data from this study will provide information to determine how future operations may be modified to meet flood protection for the downstream area, while also increasing opportunities for additional storage for winter flows.

Reclamation has determined that an Environmental Assessment (EA) is required under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) in order to undertake this action. The EA will evaluate the impacts of the proposed action on the human population and the natural environment. This analysis, together with input from the public, will assist Reclamation and the Army Corps of Engineers in making informed decisions on the proposed interim operations.

The scoping meeting will help the public identify issues and concerns. The meeting will be held at the Red Lion Convention Center, 475 Parkway in Idaho Falls from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. The meeting facility is accessible to people with physical disabilities. If special assistance or an interpreter is needed, please contact Mr. Don Bowden at (208) 678-0461, ext. 13.

It is anticipated that the Draft EA will be distributed for public review and comment in late spring of 2011. In addition to comments received at the scoping meetings, written comments will be accepted through February 11, 2011, to: Mr. Robert L. "Hap" Boyer, Natural Resource Manager, Bureau of Reclamation, Upper Snake Field Office, 1359 Hansen Avenue, Burley, Idaho 83318-1821.

Ririe Dam is operated as one of six storage facilities on the Snake and Henrys Fork rivers. It is a multi-purpose project that provides irrigation, flood control, recreation, and fish and wildlife benefits. Additional information is posted at: www.usbr.gov/pn/programs/ea/idaho/ririe/index.html

Note to Editors: Download radio actualities for the proposed Interim Operations of Ririe Reservoir and Dam at: http://www.usbr.gov/pn/news/audio/ririe/index.html.