Puget Sound Energy, Inc. has proposed improvements for the Upper Baker Dam that involve reinforcing the spillway and removing debris to prevent flooding and enhance power generation. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) plans to prepare an Environmental Assessment (EA) for this project while collaborating with environmental agencies like the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Marine Fisheries Service. A key environmental consideration addressed in these consultations is the impact of the project on endangered species and their habitats, as well as essential fish habitats, particularly for Pacific coast salmon. The EA is expected to be issued by March 2025, and FERC is encouraging public participation and providing resources for those interested in engaging with the process.
Simple Explanation
Puget Sound Energy wants to make a dam safer and help make more electricity by fixing it, and some big organizations will check if this will be good or bad for animals and fish. People can tell the organization what they think, but it's not clear how their thoughts will change the plan.