Construction of a Third Hydroelectric Generating Unit - Black Canyon Dam
Final Environmental Assessment

Reclamation first announced its proposal to implement construction of the third hydroelctric unit through a news release on July 26, 2010. On July 8, 2010, Reclamation received an updated list of Endangered Species Act (ESA) listed species potentially within Gem County and the project area. Because of the value of the historic integrity of the existing generating units and surrounding facilities, in November 2010 Reclamation consulted with the SHPO and the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (ACHP) to ensure historic integrity would not be lost through the addition of a new plant.

Reclamation’s public involvement included comments received from an individual via a letter, and two phone messages from Idaho Department of Parks the Corps and where appropriate, the Final EA was revised to reflect their concerns. Reclamation did incorporate editorial revisions to clarify aspects of the document and to ensure accuracy. These revisions did not substantially change the environmental impacts discussed in the Draft EA. The findings of the FONSI are based on the Final EA and the comment summary and responses.

Based on a thorough review of the comments received and analysis of the environmental impacts, mitigation measures, and implementation of all environmental commitments as presented in the Final EA and FONSI, Reclamation concluded that implementation of the recommended action alternative of constructing a third hydroelectric generation unit at Black Canyon Dam will not have a significant effect on the quality of the human environment or natural and cultural resources. The effects of the recommended action alternative will be short-term, minor, and localized. Therefore, Reclamation concludes that preparation of an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) is not required and that the FONSI satisfies the requirements of NEPA.

For more information contact Ms. Gretchen Fitzgerald, Bureau of Reclamation, Snake River Area Office, 230 Collins Road, Boise, ID 83702-4520 or call (208) 383-2231.

Documents

Gretchen Fitzgerald
(208) 383-2231

Bureau of Reclamation
Snake River Area Office
230 Collins Road
Boise, Idaho 83702

Last Update: February 13, 2012 3:38 PM