| Pacific
Northwest Region Boise, Idaho October 11, 2002 |
Contact:
Larry Wolf (208) 378-5220 |
Reclamation Releases FONSI and Final EA for Grassy Lake Dam
The Bureau of Reclamation has released final documents for the safety of dams modifications at Grassy Lake Dam, about 38 miles east of Ashton, Idaho.
Both the final Environmental Assessment and the Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) establish documentation of environmental review and evaluation of alternatives, in compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969.
The FONSI is the decision document, which concludes that implementation of the preferred alternative (Spillway Chute and Drainage System Replacement) would have no significant impacts on the quality of the human environment or the natural resources of the area.
Investigations at Grassy Lake Dam show that significant damage has occurred to the floor of the spillway and the toe-drain system. The damage is significant to present a serious risk of dam failure. Failure of Grassy Lake Dam would result in the loss of storage water for irrigation, recreational opportunities, fish and wildlife resources, and potential for loss of life downstream.
Reclamation anticipates Congressional approval of the project by spring 2003. If the project moves forward, a construction contract would be issued the following winter, with work commencing in June or July of 2004.
Grassy Lake Dam, located in a remote area of northwestern Wyoming just south of Yellowstone National Park, is part of Reclamation’s Minidoka Project.
Copies of the FONSI and EA can be obtained from Mr. Dick Bauman, Bureau of Reclamation, PO Box 1493, Jackson WY 83001 or by calling (307) 739-8765 or on the web site.
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