FR 2025-02080

The document provides notice of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission’s (FERC) intent to prepare an Environmental Assessment (EA) for Puget Sound Energy, Inc.'s proposed project on the Upper Baker Dam. The enhancements include stabilizing the spillway and removing debris to prevent flooding and improve power generation. This action involves working closely with other federal agencies, such as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Marine Fisheries Service, to ensure compliance with environmental regulations concerning endangered species and essential fish habitats.

General Summary

Puget Sound Energy is taking steps to address concerns about the stability of the Upper Baker Dam’s spillway. The project seeks to secure the structure and clear debris, which currently contributes to flooding and hinders power production. FERC is spearheading the preparation of an environmental assessment and cooperating with environmental and wildlife agencies. The discussions are centered on minimizing the project's ecological impacts, particularly concerning threatened species and essential fish habitats critical for Pacific coast salmon.

Significant Issues and Concerns

There are several issues evident in the document.

1. Lack of Cost Details: The document fails to provide information on the projected financial expenditure for the spillway improvements. This omission makes it challenging to gauge the project's economic efficiency and whether it constitutes prudent use of funds.

2. Ambiguity in Communication: While the document traces various interactions among agencies over extensive dates, it lacks clarity on the outcomes or the importance of these exchanges. Such references could lead to confusion among readers who seek to understand the procedural progress.

3. Technical Language: The use of technical terminology related to environmental assessments, endangered species consultations, and fishery conservation acts might not be accessible to the general public. This could hinder public comprehension and participation.

4. Insufficient Environmental Impact Details: The document does not provide an in-depth analysis of potential environmental impacts. This lack of transparency might lead to public apprehension concerning possible ecological harm.

5. Consultation Terms Undefined: References to formal and informal consultations do not clarify the difference between these processes or their implications, leaving the audience without a clear understanding of the consultation's depth and breadth.

6. Public Participation Process: While contact information for public inquiry is shared, there is no clear directive on how public feedback will be incorporated into the decision-making process. This could discourage meaningful public involvement.

Impact on the Public

The proposed project to stabilize the Upper Baker Dam is likely of considerable interest to local residents and environmental groups in the region. On a broad scale, the project aims to enhance power generation and reduce flood risks, potentially benefiting regional infrastructure stability. However, the concerns around environmental impacts could elicit public scrutiny or opposition, particularly from conservationists and communities focused on ecological preservation.

Stakeholder Impacts

For local communities, particularly those in Skagit and Whatcom counties, the project could mitigate flood risks and improve energy reliability, which is a positive outcome. On the other hand, environmental stakeholders may express concerns over the potential disturbance to critical habitats and the local ecosystem, necessitating clear communication and involvement in the process to ensure balanced ecological and infrastructural advancements.

In conclusion, while the document exhibits a structured effort to handle the Upper Baker Dam improvements with environmental considerations, there are gaps in clarity and public engagement that need addressing to ensure the diverse interests of stakeholders and the general public are adequately met.