EPA will offer advice on AEA's proposed Susitna-Watana Dam

The Environmental Protection Agency has agreed to work with the Alaska Energy Authority as a cooperating agency for the Proposed Susitna Watana Dam.

In their comments on the preliminary scoping document for the project, the EPA said they will review the Dam’s Environmental Impact Statement, but they will not be doing so with the capacity to intervene in the project. Rather, they will be working in an advisory capacity. The EPA intends to offer its expertise in aquatic resources, aquatic habitat and water quality, and familiarity with the National Environmental Policy Act.This news may come as a blow to opponents of the dam, who saw the agency as a potential hurdle to the dam’s construction. The Alaska Energy Authority will still need to obtain a permit from the US Army Corps of Engineers to discharge dredged or fill materials in to US waters. The EPA made recommendations on how the AEA can best obtain that permit.