Department of Energy July 11, 2014 – Federal Register Recent Federal Regulation Documents

In accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), BPA intends to prepare an EIS on its proposed rebuild of approximately 120 miles of existing 230-kiliovolt (kV) wood-pole transmission line that runs through Sanders, Lake, Missoula, Granite, Powell, and Deer Lodge counties, Montana. The deteriorated condition of the more than 60-year-old line compromises BPA's ability to maintain reliable electric service, and poses a safety risk to the public and maintenance crews. With this notice, BPA is initiating the public scoping process for the EIS and is requesting comments about the potential environmental impacts it should consider as it prepares the EIS for the proposed project. In accordance with DOE regulations for compliance with floodplain and wetland environmental review requirements, BPA will prepare a floodplain and wetlands assessment that identifies, evaluates, and as appropriate, implements actions to avoid or minimize potential harm to or within any affected floodplains and wetlands. The assessment will be included in the EIS.