Minidoka Dam Spillway Replacement Environmental Impact Statement

Overview

The Bureau of Reclamation intends to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement on the proposed Minidoka Dam spillway replacement. Alternatives currently being considered are:

• no action as required by NEPA,
• total replacement of the spillway and headgate structures, and
• replacement of just the spillway.

Reclamation is requesting early public comment and agency input to help identify significant issues or other alternatives to be addressed in the EIS. Information obtained during the scoping period will help in developing information to be included in the EIS.

A draft EIS is expected to be provided to the public for review by winter 2009, followed by opportunities to provide written and oral comments. The final EIS is scheduled for completion in the winter of 2010. A Record of Decision describing which alternative is selected for implementation, and the rationale for its selection, would then be issued following a 30-day waiting period.

Scoping meetings will be held on the following dates and times:

• Idaho Falls, Idaho: December 3, 2008: Open House Meeting 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Red Lion Hotel, 475 River Park Way, Idaho Falls, Idaho 83402
• Burley, Idaho: December 4, 2008: Open House Meeting 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm.
  Burley Best Western Inn, 800 North Overland Avenue, Burley, Idaho 83318

Written comments will be accepted through December 19, 2008 for inclusion in the scoping summary document. Download the comment form>>

Please direct requests for sign language interpretation for the hearing impaired or other auxiliary aids to Ms. Allyn Meuleman by November 24, 2008 at (208) 383-2258. You can fax your request to (208) 383-2237.

Comments and requests to be added to the mailing list may be submitted to Bureau of Reclamation, Snake River Area Office, Attention: Allyn Meuleman, Activity Manager, 230 Collins Road, Boise, ID  83702-4520. Comments may also be submitted electronically to minidoka_dam_eis@pn.usbr.gov.

Documents

Allyn Meuleman, Activity Manager
Bureau of Reclamation
Snake River Area Office
230 Collins Road
Boise, Idaho 83702-4520

minidoka_dam_eis@pn.usbr.gov

(208) 383-2258
(208) 383-2237 FAX

Last Update: November 14, 2008 11:52 AM