AW Comments on NF Snoqualmie Hydro Project
Posted: 12/12/2012
By: Megan Hooker
On December 6th, 2012, American Whitewater filed comments with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) on Black Canyon Hydro's proposed hydroelectric project on Washington's North Fork Snoqualmie River. FERC issued a preliminary permit to Black Canyon Hydro in the summer of 2012, and is currently in the process of considering study requests required for the project. American Whitewater called for a whitewater recreation study, and also requested that angling resources in the area be evaluated. You can read our comments here.
If constructed, the Black Canyon Hydroelectric Project would involve a new dam on the North Fork
Snoqualmie, diverting the river around Ernie's Gorge to a powerhouse. Ernie's Gorge is a
unique whitewater gem located near Seattle, and American Whitewater has been engaged in the
process from the beginning. The river section proposed for development holds numerous local,
state and federal protections, including being listed as a Protected Area by the Northwest Power
and Conservation Council. The river also flows through the WA Department of Natural
Resources' Mt. Si Natural Resources Conservation Area. The project is also prohibited by King
County Ordinances. Numerous local paddlers have also been making their voices heard throughout
the process.
We'll continue to stay on top of what's happening. Stay tuned for updates.