EASTON, Wash. - The Bureau of Reclamation invites the public to identify issues or alternatives for consideration in the development of an environmental assessment for the Kachess Dam safety project. The 30-day public comment period will be open from July 26 to Aug. 25. The project area is located in Kittitas County, two miles north of Easton, Wash.
As part of its Safety of Dams program mission, Reclamation is committed to ensuring its dams do not present unacceptable risk levels to people, property, and the environment. The proposed project will implement cost-effective measures to reduce long-term performance risks per Reclamation’s Public Protection Guidelines; maintain water deliveries throughout the Yakima basin; minimize impacts to the environment; and maintain water flow for endangered species.
Kachess Dam is performing as designed; however, over years of operation, voids have formed along the outlet works due to erosion from seepage. The proposed modifications address issues important to the long-term functionality. There is no immediate threat to the safety of the dam-the dam is being rigorously monitored for any changes in performance.
The public can provide input and participate in the scoping process through two, live virtual public meetings that will be held Aug. 10 and 12, from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. PDT. During these meetings, subject matter experts will be available to answer questions about the project. Attendees can participate via computer or phone. A virtual meeting room also will be accessible 24 hours a day. Visitors can view information about the project, pose questions, view answers, and submit formal comments. To join the public meetings and/or access the virtual meeting room, visit https://www.virtualpublicmeeting.com/kachess-dam-safety-ea-scoping.
Comments can be submitted during the virtual public meetings, or via email to BOR-SHA-KSODNEPA@usbr.gov. Written comments can be sent to Mr. Jonathan Penman-Brotzman, environmental protection specialist, Bureau of Reclamation, Columbia-Cascades Area Office, 1917, Marsh Rd. Yakima, WA 98901. Comments must be submitted/postmarked by Aug. 25.
For more information, please visit https://www.usbr.gov/pn/programs/sod/kachess/index.html.
Source: Bureau of Reclamation
