FR 2025-07659

Summary of the Document

The document is a notice from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) regarding an application filed by Erie Boulevard Hydropower, L.P. The application seeks to renew the license for the Franklin Falls Hydroelectric Project, a 2.12-megawatt project situated on the Saranac River in New York. FERC staff plans to prepare an environmental assessment (EA) to evaluate the potential environmental impacts of renewing the license. The assessment is part of the process to ensure that the project will not adversely affect the quality of the human environment. Furthermore, FERC's Office of Public Participation is available to assist the public in navigating the process and provide support for those wishing to engage in it.

Significant Issues or Concerns

One issue noted in the document is the decision to prepare an environmental assessment despite the staff’s anticipation that the project will not have significant environmental impacts. This raises the question of why an EA is necessary if no major federal action is expected to significantly affect the environment. Clarifying this could help the public understand FERC's regulatory processes better.

Additionally, there's a typographical error in the document where "RELA notice" is mentioned, which should actually read "REA notice." This kind of error, while seemingly minor, could lead to confusion.

Moreover, the reference to a specific identification number used for tracking under the National Environmental Policy Act lacks context for the general public. Explaining its purpose might make the process more transparent for those unfamiliar with such identifiers.

The contact details provided for the Commission's Office of Public Participation and individual staff could benefit from additional context. It is not clear what types of inquiries are appropriate or how the public should use these contacts. Providing a bit more guidance here would be helpful.

Finally, the document mentions the potential for schedule revisions but does not include the current schedule or explain how the public will be informed about such changes. Greater transparency in this area would ensure that interested parties remain informed and engaged throughout the process.

Impact on the Public and Stakeholders

For the general public, this document emphasizes the role of civic engagement in government-led environmental processes. The public is invited to review and comment on the environmental assessment, which can affect the final decision regarding the project’s licensing. This engagement ensures that various perspectives, especially those directly impacted, are considered.

For specific stakeholders, such as landowners and community organizations involved in the process, the document and related proceedings have direct implications. Positive impacts may include ensuring that environmental and community interests are protected. On the downside, changes in the licensing could impact energy prices or local developments if the project is seen as potentially harmful or economically unviable without a license.

Overall, while this document lays out an important procedural step in the relicensing of a hydropower project, it underscores the importance of clear communication and public participation in regulatory processes.