FR 2021-02627

The document from the Federal Register is an official notice from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) concerning a procedural aspect of a water quality certification process. It pertains to an application submitted by the California Department of Water Resources and the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power on January 29, 2021. This application seeks a water quality certification under the Clean Water Act from the California State Water Resources Control Board.

General Summary

The core of the document is to inform the California State Water Resources Control Board about the timeline within which they must act upon the water quality certification request. Specifically, they have one year from January 29, 2021, to respond. If the Board does not act by January 29, 2022, their authority to certify is considered waived. This notice serves as a formal notification to ensure that all parties are aligned on the timeline and potential implications of inaction.

Significant Issues or Concerns

While the document effectively communicates the timeline for action, it lacks detail about the nature or scope of the project linked to the certification. This absence makes it difficult for the public to understand what specific activities or developments are under consideration for environmental regulation.

Additionally, the document provides no rationale for the one-year timeframe designated as the "reasonable period of time" to act. This could leave room for interpretation or challenge, especially if stakeholders believe that a different timeframe would be more appropriate.

There is also limited information on potential consequences should the Board fail to act within the prescribed period. While the waiver of authority is mentioned, the follow-on effects of such a waiver, both for the applicants and the environment, are not explored.

Impact on the Public

Broadly, the document reflects a procedural requirement that aligns with federal environmental regulations. The notice ensures that water quality considerations are addressed in projects that could impact California's water resources. However, due to the sparse detail regarding the project, the public remains uninformed about specific environmental implications, which could impact public awareness and engagement.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

For the California Department of Water Resources and the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, this notice marks a critical step in their pursuit of necessary permits. A favorable or timely review would allow their projects to proceed without legal or regulatory hindrance.

Conversely, the California State Water Resources Control Board faces the responsibility of reviewing the application within the stipulated year. If they fail to do so, they risk having their authority waived, which might lead to projects advancing without state-level water quality assurances.

In summary, while this notice effectively communicates a certification timeline, it highlights the need for more transparency and detail about the underlying project and regulatory processes. Such information would enhance public understanding and involvement in matters impacting California's water resources.