 March 10, 2009
In 2003, Kootznoowoo, Inc., the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA) corporation for the city of Angoon, asked the Forest Service to begin the process necessary to permit and develop a hydroelectric facility. The Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act of 1980 (ANILCA) granted Kootznoowoo the right to develop the hydroelectric project subject to conditions prescribed by the Forest Service for protection of natural resources, recreational, heritage and scenic values. Congress specifically exempted the hydropower project from the requirements of the Wilderness Act. The project, when implemented by Kootznoowoo, Inc., would potentially lower the cost of electric bills in Angoon and reduce the village's dependence on diesel-generated power. It is also in line with President Obama's goal to increase renewable energy. The proposed hydroelectric plant would be constructed on Thayer Creek within Admiralty National Monument and the Kootznoowoo Wilderness, and would use only the water available in the natural flow of the river, with power delivered to Angoon. It would include a diversion dam, intake structure, marine facility, three access roads, two staging areas, transmission lines, a power plant, a surge tank, and about 6,600 feet of pipeline. The FEIS analyzes three action alternatives for developing hydroelectric power using Thayer Creek, and one no-action alternative. "I plan to release the Record Of Decision (ROD) at least one month later than this FEIS to provide an opportunity for the public and agencies to review the FEIS," said Tongass Forest Supervisor Forrest Cole. The ROD will document Cole's decision on the selected alternative and facts considered in reaching the decision. It will also specify the effective date of the implementation for the decision and the Notice of Rights of Appeal. For copies of the FEIS, contact Michelle Putz at 907-747-4278 or by e-mail at mputz@fs.fed.us
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