FR 2021-03159

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has released a notice concerning an application for a new minor license for the Lower Great Falls Hydroelectric Project. This project is located on the Salmon Falls River, straddling the border between New Hampshire and Maine. The application, submitted by Green Mountain Power and the City of Somersworth, seeks to continue operating the hydroelectric facility in its current "run-of-river" mode. The project aims to enhance the environmental sustainability of the facility by increasing the minimum water flow and improving fish passage through installations that accommodate eels and other species.

General Overview

This document is intended to inform the public about the pending review of a hydroelectric facility's licensing application and to invite public commentary. Importantly, the proposal involves adjustments to minimum flow requirements to better support the river's aquatic ecosystems and modifications to the infrastructure to facilitate fish migration. Such changes are being proposed as part of the relicensing application under the Federal Power Act.

Key Issues and Concerns

While the document outlines proposals for environmental enhancements, it is notably short on details that could justify significant changes. For instance, the justification for the increase in minimum water flow from 6.05 cubic feet per second (cfs) to 30 cfs lacks scientific or environmental explanations, leaving stakeholders without an understanding of the underlying environmental benefits or consequences.

Additionally, plans to install an eel ramp and fish pass structures are mentioned without specifics about the expected costs, timelines, or broader ecological impacts. These omissions may cause concern about financial transparency and the effective planning of environmental measures.

The instructions concerning the procedural steps for submitting comments or accessing documents use regulatory language that might be complex for individuals unfamiliar with such processes. Terms like "docket number" and "evidentiary basis" could be barriers to public participation, particularly for those not versed in administrative law.

Impact on the Public and Stakeholders

Broadly, the public stands to benefit from the proposed focus on enhancing aquatic life through increased water flows and improved fish passage facilities. However, the lack of concrete data or scientific rationale might generate public skepticism regarding the necessity and efficacy of these measures.

Specific stakeholders, such as local communities and environmental groups, may find positive impacts if the measures lead to improved aquatic ecosystems and fish populations. Conversely, the costs associated with infrastructure changes could influence utility rates or lead to debates over resource allocation, potentially impacting municipal budgets or residents' utility bills.

Finally, there is a procedural ambiguity about where the water quality certification, associated with the regulatory framework, should be filed, which could confuse applicants and delay the application process.

Conclusion

While the intention behind the FERC notice and the proposed changes to the Lower Great Falls Hydroelectric Project appears positive, various information gaps could hinder effective public engagement and stakeholder alignment. The document might benefit from additional clarity and comprehensive data to legitimately support the proposed environmental measures and to transparently outline expected costs, timelines, and ecological benefits. This would help in gaining public trust and in facilitating a more informed community dialogue.