Big Eddy-Knight Transmission Project Draft Environmental Impact Statement
The following comments were submitted in response to the open comment period described below.
Comments are numbered consecutively as they are received. Breaks in the number sequence result when comments are deleted because they
were submitted in error or have inappropriate content (such as SPAM). If you do not see your comment two business days after
you submit it, please contact (800) 622-4519.
BPA has completed the draft environmental impact statement (EIS) for its proposed Big Eddy-Knight 500-kilovolt high-voltage transmission line from our existing substation in The Dalles, OR, to a proposed new Knight Substation about four miles northwest of Goldendale, WA. The proposed project is needed to increase the electrical capacity of our system in response to requests for transmission service in this area.
The draft EIS describes the proposed project and why it is needed, identifies BPA’s preferred alternative, discusses the environmental impacts the project would create and lists the mitigation measures that would lessen or eliminate those impacts. Comments on the draft EIS are encouraged and due to BPA by January 28, 2011.
BPA will hold two open-house style public meetings so that BPA staff can collect comments from you, and be available to answer your questions on the draft EIS and project.
Public Meeting Information:
Jan. 11: 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Shilo Inn Suites Hotel, 3223 Bret Clodfelter Way, The Dalles , OR 97058.
Jan. 12: 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Goldendale High School, 525 E. Simcoe Drive, Goldendale , WA 98620.
In case of severe weather, please call 800-622-4519 to ensure the meeting has not been cancelled and rescheduled.
Public Meeting Directions: http://www.bpa.gov/corporate/public_affairs/Calendar/
View previous comments received during the initial public scoping period:
http://www.bpa.gov/applications/publiccomments/CommentList.aspx?ID=72
View previous comments received on the project refinements:
http://www.bpa.gov/applications/publiccomments/CommentList.aspx?ID=87
For More Information:
http://www.efw.bpa.gov/environmental_services/Document_Library/Big_Eddy-Knight/
Close of comment: 1/28/2011
- BEKD10002 -
Heiken/Oregon WildPlease accept the following scoping comments from Oregon Wild regarding the proposed Big Eddy-Knight Transmission Project. We would like to save paper, so please do not send us a hard copy of the EIS. We will look at it online and order a hard copy if we need one. Please co-locate this project with existing powerline rights-of-way as much as possible. The West Alternative looks like it might have the most existing R-O-W, but it also requires an additional Columbia River crossing. Please consider adjusting this alternative to co-locate this project with an existing river crossing. We also urge BPA to make every effort to minimize impacts to scenic values, fish and wildlife and birds, and avoid spreading weeds.
- BEKD10003 -
SchimschokView attached document
View Attachment
- BEKD10006 -
ZarembaCongress established the Columbia Gorge Scenic Area for several purposes. Putting your power lines there is not part of the purpose. The State of Washington preserves the Columbia Hills State Park to preserve scenic views and native flora. Your power lines do not aid their purpose. The Indian Trust land has been abused enough already. Stop it! The solution is simple that I am amazed it is not an alternative: Build and consolidate these new lines eastward, within the existing right of way on the John Day-Big Eddy. At some point east of the east boundary of the Columbia River Scenic area, go north. The location of the Knight sub-station does not appear to be irreversible. Please stay away from the Columbia River Scenic Area, the Columbia Hills State Park and the Indian Trust land. Thank you for considering my comment.
- BEKD10004 -
HoosonWe would like to comment on the proposed transmission line along Knight Rd. We own a piece of property on Fairgrounds Rd off of Knight Road with a wonderful unobstructed view of Mt Adams. We would be extremely disappointed and financially damaged if our view was compromised by the proposed power line. We do intend to recover damages from BPA should this be the case. Mitigation funds must be included in your proposal for folks like ourselves whose property will diminish in value if the view is compromised.
- BEKD10007 -
BjergoAs property owners on the Little Klickitat River my family and I are extremely grateful that East Alternative is BPA's preferred choice. This choice keeps our property view of Mount Hood unobstructed. We bought the property to enjoy the scenic views and plan to build and retire there. We have put off building a home, however, as we were uncertain where the lines would be put in and feared it would ruin the value as well as our enjoyment of the location. Again, we are so thankful and full heartedly support the East Alternative.
- BEKD10008 -
Trosper/land ownerWe live on Hwy 14 adjacent to Boulder drive to the East. We would like a smaller map showing if the Lines would be going through our property? We have been given the maps you give us and everyone else BUT we would like to have I guess a plotted map showing whose property you would be crossing and to see if our property is on this map? Sincerly John and Bonnie Trosper
- BEKD10009 -
Miller
west side towers appears to use existing right of way that is being used by the wood transmission line to Goldendale, and if the wood towers are removed, would leave room for the new steel towers. (are the wood structures now supplying power or back up power to the Goldendale BPA Substation, and if it is, would an interconnect be made to continue that duty?)
the west side towers are less likely to create issues with migrating waterfowl than the middle or east tower sites. (most of the waterfowl seem to move east and west along the flooded portions of the valley, and not down the canyon).
the west side tower site may cause some influence on bird migration(raptors in the winter and songbirds in the summer) that use Swale Canyon as an access route, but perhaps the steel towers will be less of an issue than the siting of the existing wood structures if they are replaced in the construction.
the middle and east towers could cause some issues with the available land space within the Urban Area for Wishram by having new towers located in the land space.
the middle and east towers may be more visible to the viewing public than that of the west tower sites.
there may be some benefit of the tower construction coming down the west tower site, as the construction road may allow for more access to view the wild flowers that are on public property. additionally, would provide for fire access to the public property.
i would summarize by saying that the construction of the new line along the west side would be a preference (at this time).
are there going to be other interconnects available to the new line for additional wind farm generation substations to tie in with?
i could discuss other issues, but they are probably not appropriate for this project.
many thanks for allowing us time and paper to respond to the proposed project.
Doug Miller
Goldendale
- BEKD10010 -
Robbins/U.S. DOI, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Yakama AgencyView document attached
View Attachment
- BEKD10011 -
Kissler
Mr. Prickett; I appreciate the phone call last week after BPA's public open houses on the Big-Eddy/Knight Transmission project in The Dalles and Goldendale. As I indicated during our conversation driving from Salem with weather conditions so unpredictable in the Gorge was just to potentially dangerous for me to participate in the open houses. You indicated that I could provide written testimony and mail my exhibits to you directly for inclusion to the public record. I'm providing the following information to be included in the record.
" The proposed Western Alternative specifically between line mile w-17 to w-20 will severely impact our 20 acre parcel in Mustang Ranch Subdivision located on Morgan Court by the loss of open and unobstructed views of Mt Adams and Mt. Rainer. The current BPA easement located adjacent to our property has an existing 115kv line with wooden poles with maximum height of 65' which is below the open view of the mountains. If the western alternative is chosen as preferred route the design of increased easements widths and pole heights as indicated in Fig 2-6, 2-8, 2-9 and 2-10 using single circuit or double circuit systems is unacceptable with out compensation to property owners up to and including selling the entire parcel due to loss of unobstructed views. As I read the EIS on the Big Eddy/Knight project table 2-8 offers no compensation for immediately adjacent property owners for loss of unobstructed views. I disagree with lack of compensation for lost views which greatly devalues our parcel and other parcels in the development.
The Big Eddy/Knight EIS indicates that the Eastern Alternative is BPA's preferred route. I agree with this assessment and support the eastern alternative as the preferred route not just only avoiding impacts to our property but the results of the environment impact listed in Table 2-6 and 2-7 indicated in the EIS. From a pure environment impact the Eastern Alternative should be the route used for the Big Eddy/Knight Transmission Project".
I will forward supporting exhibits of my concerns on the Western Alternative visual impacts located between line mile w-18 and w-19. I simply have used maximum existing pole height and compare it with maximum single and double circuit pole heights. Figure 3-5 showing existing view versus simulated view in the EIS is not representative of the visual impacts on our development.
Please make this e-mail a permanent part of the public record. Let me know if you have questions or need clarification on my statement or exhibits and please reply you have received this e-mail. Thanks
Respectfully;
Rob Kissler
- BEKD10012 -
WanlessView attached document which was received at the public meeting on 1/12/11 in Goldendale, WA.
View Attachment
- BEKD10013 -
MarkmanView attached document which was received at the public meeting on 1/11/11 in The Dalles, Oregon
View Attachment
- BEKD10014 -
JussilaView attached document which was received at the public meeting on 1/11/11 in The Dalles, Oregon
View Attachment
- BEKD10015 -
The Dalles Public Meeting CommentsView attached document listing general comments received at the Open House Public Meeting in the Dalles on January 11, 2011.
View Attachment
- BEKD10016 -
Goldendale Public Meeting CommentsView attached document listing general comments received at the Open House Public Meeting in Goldendale, WA on January 12, 2011.
View Attachment
- BEKD10017 -
Paul/Goldendale ResidentBoth the middle and east alternatives would impact the future of the Goldendale Airport. The State of Washington a couple of years ago adopted FAA requirements for airports. These requirements demand more separation from buildings and roads on the east end of the runway thus Goldendale Airport will eventually have to be slid a quarter of a mile or more westward on a compass direction of 250 degrees toward Knight Rd. In addition, the runway needs to be lengthened another quarter of a mile to handle business aircraft. These conditions will have to be met in order to qualify for state/federal funding. Tall powerlines near Knight Rd. would present an approach hazard on the west end of the runway, thus impacting moving the airport west. Has this been discussed with the FAA, State Aeronautics and the City of Goldendale?
- BEKD10065 -
DovePlease find my comments on TEP-TPP-3 attached. Could you confirm receipt, please? Thank you, Lorna Dove
View Attachment
- BEKD10018 -
ArmstrongMy husband Seth and I moved to the area 3 years ago for his job. We fell in love with Centerville because of the school, community, and all of the open space with fields of hay and wheat, but most of all the view. The views from our house our amazing. We have views of Mt. Hood, Mt. St.Helen's and Mt. Adams, along with gorgeous sunsets. Our house is filled with the beautiful pictures we have taken from our property and part of the the reason we chose this house. Then we get a letter from you telling us you want to put in huge towers and power lines that will obstruct that beautiful view. The joy of living out here is that you are away from the hustle and bustle of big city living and all that comes with it including giant ugly towers. Not only will our view be taken away, but our property value will be significantly decreased. The towers proposed in the middle alternative will feel as if they are in our backyard. It is bad enough that we can now see flashing red lights from our dining room window and not benefit from their income potential to have this thrown in the mix. In closing I hope you will take the middle alternative out of the running and save a beautiful view. Thank you, Seth and Jennifer Armstrong
- BEKD10019 -
StoverPlease stick with the preferred route, i.e. the eastern route. That route will have the least impact on scenic vistas, wildlife, and public lands that are valuable for their natural resources and recreational opportunities. I am particular opposed to having a huge transmission line go through the Dalles Mt. Ranch a.k.a. Columbia Hills State Park. This is a park where I frequently go to hike, birdwatch, observe wildflowers and enjoy the fresh air and splendor of a (relatively) untrammeled landscape. The construction of large wind projects has already irreparably altered the landscape and natural services of eastern Klickitat County. A giant transmission line does further damage to scenic vistas, human health, soils, and flora and fauna. Confining such a transmission line to an existing corridor that already has a road and impaired views is the best course of action if the Big Eddy-Knight line must be constructed. (I question the need for this transmission, which is being built to send power to California rather than to serve local needs, and which will likely lead to the construction of fossil-fuel-fired power plants to "balance" the wind energy that has overwhelmed the regional hydropower system.)
- BEKD10020 -
Bloch/nonePlease route the transmission line and optical cable according to the Eastern Alternative. It minimizes the scenic and surface impacts on the portion of the Dalles Mountain with maximum scenic and wildlife (especially botanical) value. To people who do not know the Dalles Mountain well, it is just another bit of underpopulated, undeproductive agricultural land. However, it is, in fact, an area of monumental scenery and diverse, dense native botany, home to at least two rare and beautiful wildflowers as well as hundreds of acres of dense and not so rare lupine and balsamroot. The spring bloom in this area is a national treasure and one of the most accessible and photographed vistas in the Pacific Northwest. This also a prehistoric and historic landscape, a vestige of the grandeur which confronted Lewis and Clark as they came down the Columbia River and interacted with a complex Native American culture which had settled, foraged, and traded here for untold centuries. The Eastern Alternative traverses the Dalles Mountain as far as possible (among the proposed alternatives) from the ridge's scenic and botanical core by routing the new power line along the WA Route 14 corridor, an already degraded environment. The only more preferable route is one the BPA has not offered, which would cross the ridge close to US Route 97. A major effect of the wind farm explosion in the vicinity of Maryhill, Route 97, and Goldendale has been to transform a rural or primitive landscape into an industrial one. It is important to contain the scenic damage as much as possible by concentrating impacts into the smallest possible area so that the remaining scenery and ground cover can remain unimpacted.
- BEKD10021 -
Ray
I live in the Columbia River Gorge NSA and am writing to comment on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) for the proposed Big Eddy-Knight Transmission Project.
If new transmission lines are absolutely necessary and there are no siting alternatives to avoid new transmission lines within the Scenic Area, then the BPA should select the eastern alternative and use underground transmissions lines within the Scenic Area viewshed.
- BEKD10022 -
Shaprio
I hope BPA will pick a route with the least impact on the Columbia Gorge. If lines have to be run within the Gorge, they should be underground. If the BPA picks one of the proposed routes, it should be the eastern route, which runs along an existing easement. Power lines visible from within the Gorge Scenic Area diminish the beauty of the area.
- BEKD10023 -
Lawton
I have no problem with BPA's plans for the Big Eddy-Knight Transmission Project. Opposition to this project is coming from the usual NIMBYs who oppose any and all development within a whisper of the Gorge. I recognize the need to continue to upgrade and add to our electrical infrastructure and, although I frequently hike in the Columbia Gorge, I can accept that some sacrifices are necessary.
Regards,
Jeffrey Lawton
- BEKD10024 -
Johnson
Regarding the Big Eddy-Knight Transmission Project:
The western and middle alternatives should be avoided because of impacts on the state park, natural area preserve, Columbia Hills "Important Bird Area," rare plant habitat, oak woodlands listed as critical habitat in Washington State, and endangered species habitat. The western route would pass through the National Scenic Area, Columbia Hills State Parks and Columbia Hills Natural Area Preserve.
The eastern route is most acceptable, unless there are other alternatives that do not impact the Scenic Area at all.
Thank you for the opportunity to comment.
jackie johnson
- BEKD10027 -
Jordan
We are writing to comment on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) for the proposed Big Eddy-Knight Transmission Project and its potential impacts on the Columbia River Gorge, a place we care about. We have recently moved to Oregon from Texas (where not one gives a darn about the scenery). We think that the The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area an incredible area. We are amazed at the scenic views every time we drive I-84 or Hwy 14 in Washington.
We are concerned that this project is proposed within a National Scenic Area and that there is likelihood of adverse effects resulting from each one of the action alternatives. We feel that the BPA should extend the comment period to 90 days. The BPA should also hold hearings in major population areas like the Portland/Vancouver metro area so that the public has an adequate opportunity to review and comment on this project, since the project’s direct and indirect impacts could affect the entire region.
The BPA's DEIS fails to consider alternatives that avoid siting new transmission lines within the National Scenic Area. The DEIS also fails to adequately consider alternatives that would place underground all or portions of new transmissions lines within the Scenic Area. The National Scenic Area Management Plan (M.P.) requires new power lines to be underground, unless it can be demonstrated to be impracticable. (M.P. Page I-1-10) "Practicable" is defined as "able to be done, considering technology and cost." (M.P. Glossary-14) Clearly, the BPA is able to place the lines underground and should, considering the proposed alternatives are located within a congressionally designated National Scenic Area.
Aside from the "No Action" alternative, all of the alternatives under consideration are likely to harm scenic, natural, cultural and recreation resources within the Scenic Area in violation of the National Environmental Policy Act and the National Scenic Area Act. However, the eastern route follows an existing power line easement through the Scenic Area and appears to have less impacts than the middle and west alternatives.
The western and middle alternatives should have been dropped from consideration during the "scoping" phase of environmental review. These routes are near or within a state park, a natural area preserve, the Columbia Hills "Important Bird Area," rare plant habitat, oak woodlands listed as critical habitat in Washington State, and endangered species habitat. The western route would pass through the National Scenic Area, Columbia Hills State Parks and Columbia Hills Natural Area Preserve, resulting in egregious impacts to scenic, natural, cultural and recreation resources.
As the BPA moves forward with this project it should develop an alternative route that avoids adverse impacts on resources within the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. If the eastern route is selected, then the transmission lines should be placed underground in order to comply with the National Scenic Area Act. Thank you for the opportunity to comment.
Judy Jordan
- BEKD10028 -
Starr
Of what value is it to designate areas as having value for their scenic beauty if projects such as this one are even allowed to be put into motion. Are you serious? Why do you even put forth the financial resources to design a plan that assaults the unique values of the Gorge? I cannot believe that everyone on this project agrees that this is the right thing to do. Put your vast resources and good minds together to create a plan that honors the amazing value that the Columbia River Gorge area is.
As the BPA moves forward with this project it should develop an alternative route that avoids adverse impacts on resources within the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. If the eastern route is selected, then the transmission lines should be placed underground in order to comply with the National Scenic Area Act. Thank you for the opportunity to comment.
linda starr
- BEKD10029 -
Balmuth
The Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area is not very large, but it is unique and must be preserved. The new power line route violates the visual integrity of the NSA and should not be used. The Old power line route has less impact. If new transmission lines are absolutely necessary and there are no siting alternatives to avoid new transmission lines within the Scenic Area, then the BPA should select the eastern alternative and use underground transmissions lines within the Scenic Area viewshed. Finally, the BPA must eliminate the western and central alternatives, which cross a state park, Columbia Hills Natural Area Preserve and critical oak woodlands habitat that is essential for threatened species.
It is important to respect the Scenic Area. It is a unique natural treasure that can never be replaced.
Laurie Lyman Balmuth
Hood River, Oregon
I am writing to comment on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) for the proposed Big Eddy-Knight Transmission Project and its potential impacts on the Columbia River Gorge, a place I care about protecting for future generations to enjoy.
The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area is a spectacular area, recognized by Congress for its unparalleled scenic vistas and outstanding natural landscapes. Because the project is proposed within a National Scenic Area and there is a substantial likelihood of adverse effects resulting from each one of the action alternatives, the BPA should extend the comment period to 90 days. The BPA should also hold hearings in major population areas like the Portland/Vancouver metro area so that the public has an adequate opportunity to review and comment on this project, since the project’s direct and indirect impacts could affect the entire region.
The BPA's DEIS fails to consider alternatives that avoid siting new transmission lines within the National Scenic Area. The DEIS also fails to adequately consider alternatives that would place underground all or portions of new transmissions lines within the Scenic Area. The National Scenic Area Management Plan (M.P.) requires new power lines to be underground, unless it can be demonstrated to be impracticable. (M.P. Page I-1-10) "Practicable" is defined as "able to be done, considering technology and cost." (M.P. Glossary-14) Clearly, the BPA is able to place the lines underground and should, considering the proposed alternatives are located within a congressionally designated National Scenic Area.
Aside from the "No Action" alternative, all of the alternatives under consideration are likely to harm scenic, natural, cultural and recreation resources within the Scenic Area in violation of the National Environmental Policy Act and the National Scenic Area Act. However, the eastern route follows an existing power line easement through the Scenic Area and appears to have less impacts than the middle and west alternatives.
The western and middle alternatives should have been dropped from consideration during the "scoping" phase of environmental review. These routes are near or within a state park, a natural area preserve, the Columbia Hills "Important Bird Area," rare plant habitat, oak woodlands listed as critical habitat in Washington State, and endangered species habitat. The western route would pass through the National Scenic Area, Columbia Hills State Parks and Columbia Hills Natural Area Preserve, resulting in egregious impacts to scenic, natural, cultural and recreation resources.
As the BPA moves forward with this project it should develop an alternative route that avoids adverse impacts on resources within the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. If the eastern route is selected, then the transmission lines should be placed underground in order to comply with the National Scenic Area Act. Thank you for the opportunity to comment.
Laurie Balmuth
- BEKD10030 -
Hall
It is inexcusable that the Draft Environmental Impact Statement includes no alternative sitings that would place the transmission lines outside of the sight-lines of the Scenic Area.
The National Scenic Area Management Plan (M.P.) requires new power lines to be underground, unless it can be demonstrated to be impracticable. (M.P. Page I-1-10) "Practicable" is defined as "able to be done, considering technology and cost." (M.P. Glossary-14).
Aside from the "No Action" alternative, all of the alternatives under consideration are likely to harm scenic, natural, cultural and recreation resources within the Scenic Area in violation of the National Environmental Policy Act and the National Scenic Area Act.
As the BPA moves forward with this project it should develop an alternative route that avoids adverse impacts on resources within the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. If the eastern route is selected, then the transmission lines should be placed underground in order to comply with the National Scenic Area Act. Thank you for the opportunity to comment.
Camille Hall
- BEKD10031 -
Deloff
I am writing to comment on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) for the proposed Big Eddy-Knight Transmission Project.
Because the project is proposed within a National Scenic Area and there is a substantial likelihood of adverse effects resulting from each one of the action alternatives, I believe that the BPA should extend the comment period to 90 days.
The BPA should also hold hearings in major population areas like the Portland/Vancouver metro area so that the public has an adequate opportunity to review and comment on this project.
The BPA's DEIS fails to consider alternatives that would avoid siting new transmission lines above ground within the National Scenic Area.
The BPA is able to place the lines underground and should, considering the proposed alternatives are located within a National Scenic Area.
Aside from the "No Action" alternative, all of the alternatives under consideration are likely to harm scenic, natural, cultural and recreation resources within the Scenic Area in violation of the National Environmental Policy Act and the National Scenic Area Act.
However, the eastern route follows an existing power line easement through the Scenic Area and appears to have less impacts than the middle and west alternatives.
As the BPA moves forward with this project it should develop an alternative route that avoids adverse impacts on resources within the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area.
If the eastern route is selected, then the transmission lines should be placed underground in order to comply with the National Scenic Area Act.
Thank you for the opportunity to comment.
D. Deloff
- BEKD10032 -
Ullman
Please use the eastern corridor for the new power line, and use underground burial thru the gorge. There's enough eyesores in this world. In an area dedicated to scenic views for our enjoyment, surely we can spend more for a good reason, in this time of crazy costs for bad causes. Joe Ullman, former BPA employee
Joe Ullman
- BEKD10033 -
Carter
Please ensure that hearings for this are held in the Portland/Vancouver metro area, Salem, and the western suburbs of Portland since the project’s impacts will certainly affect the entire region.
Pleasecommit to a route that avoids Gorge NSA, and place lines underground!
Thank you for the opportunity to comment.
Joan Carter
- BEKD10034 -
Dukes
Please don't ruin the view!
Aaron Dukes
- BEKD10035 -
Dreyer/Klickitat County Board of County CommissionersView attached document.
View Attachment
- BEKD10036 -
O'Brien/Department of the InteriorView attached document
View Attachment
- BEKD10037 -
ChantlerI recommend the eastern most route for the transmission line. The Dalles Mountain Ranch has extraordinary wild flowers, and it is part of a state park. I am a teacher at Wishram School, and we have used this area for field trips with our Secrets program. Please protect this special and pristine area. Thank you!
- BEKD10038 -
GadwayI support the easternmost alignment. It makes the least impact on the spectacular Dalles Mt. scenery and wildlife.
- BEKD10039 -
Savery
I am writing to comment on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) for the proposed Big Eddy-Knight Transmission Project and its potential impacts on the Columbia River Gorge, a place I care about protecting for future generations to enjoy.
I am a resident of Portland, OR having been here for 31 years. Every year I spend several days hiking in the Columbia Gorge, kayaking on the Columbia River, visiting the towns, the natural sights and areas of the Columbia Gorge. It is an absolutely unique area which has been designated by Congress as a National Senic Area.
The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area is a spectacular area, recognized by Congress for its unparalleled scenic vistas and outstanding natural landscapes. Because the project is proposed within a National Scenic Area and there is a substantial likelihood of adverse effects resulting from each one of the action alternatives, the BPA should extend the comment period to 90 days. The BPA should also hold hearings in major population areas like the Portland/Vancouver metro area so that the public has an adequate opportunity to review and comment on this project, since the project’s direct and indirect impacts could affect the entire region.
The BPA's DEIS fails to consider alternatives that avoid siting new transmission lines within the National Scenic Area. The DEIS also fails to adequately consider alternatives that would place underground all or portions of new transmissions lines within the Scenic Area. The National Scenic Area Management Plan (M.P.) requires new power lines to be underground, unless it can be demonstrated to be impracticable. (M.P. Page I-1-10) "Practicable" is defined as "able to be done, considering technology and cost." (M.P. Glossary-14) Clearly, the BPA is able to place the lines underground and should, considering the proposed alternatives are located within a congressionally designated National Scenic Area.
Aside from the "No Action" alternative, all of the alternatives under consideration are likely to harm scenic, natural, cultural and recreation resources within the Scenic Area in violation of the National Environmental Policy Act and the National Scenic Area Act. However, the eastern route follows an existing power line easement through the Scenic Area and appears to have less impacts than the middle and west alternatives.
The western and middle alternatives should have been dropped from consideration during the "scoping" phase of environmental review. These routes are near or within a state park, a natural area preserve, the Columbia Hills "Important Bird Area," rare plant habitat, oak woodlands listed as critical habitat in Washington State, and endangered species habitat. The western route would pass through the National Scenic Area, Columbia Hills State Parks and Columbia Hills Natural Area Preserve, resulting in egregious impacts to scenic, natural, cultural and recreation resources.
As the BPA moves forward with this project it should develop an alternative route that avoids adverse impacts on resources within the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. If the eastern route is selected, then the transmission lines should be placed underground in order to comply with the National Scenic Area Act. Thank you for the opportunity to comment.
- BEKD10040 -
Reichgott/US Environmental Protection AgencyView attached document.
View Attachment
- BEKD10041 -
Alexander/Affiliated Tribes of Northwest IndiansView attached document
View Attachment
- BEKD10042 -
Posner/Energy Facility Site Evaluation CouncilView attached document
View Attachment
- BEKD10043 -
Mathey/Department of Ecology, Air QualityView attached document
View Attachment
- BEKD10044 -
Ritter/Washington Department of Fish and WildlifeView attached document
View Attachment
- BEKD10045 -
Clear/Washington Department of EcologyView attached document
View Attachment
- BEKD10046 -
Young/Washington Department of Natural ResourcesView attached document
View Attachment
- BEKD10047 -
WrightPlease route the proposed transmission line coming from Goldendale as far to the east as possible, preferably in the Hwy 97 corridor as that would have the least impact on relatively undisturbed lands and the least visual impact to the Columbia River corridor overall. The western-most route shown, which follows the Chenoweth-Goldendale line, is the least desireable due to the impacts the route already has on rare plants and intact plant communities, and the inappropriateness of the route through both a Natural Area Preserve and State Park. A new line would only multiply the negative impacts, which includes habitat destruction, cutting of oaks, spread of invasives and more. This area has tremendous biological values which should not be further degraded. There are also rich botanical values present in the Swale Creek area. I am not familiar with the biological resources present at the other two routes shown, however, both routes appear to cross relatively undisturbed habitats which it is desireable to maintain. The visual impact of both routes coming over the ridgeline is incompatible with the National Scenic Area. Since the eastern-most route shown is not within the Scenic Area it is preferable to the middle route, but a new option further east would be better. Powerlines are ugly to many of us, and ought to be kept within existing areas already impacted. Having the line follow Hwy 14 for a short distance would minimize impacts on otherwise relatively undisturbed land. To the extent that towers can be accessed from existing roads, then fewer miles of new road ways would need to be bladed. Roads fragment habitat and serve as corridors for invasive species to travel. It is best to concentrate new impacts to areas already degraded.
- BEKD10048 -
StanekI view the Eastern Alternative as the least problematic route for the transmission line and optical cable. It minimizes the scenic and surface impacts on the portion of the Dalles Mountain with maximum scenic and botanical value, and appears on the map to have the least impact on the Gorge Scenic area lands. The Dalles Mountain area is not necessarily well-known outside the local area, but it stands(along with Catherine Creek and Tom McCall Preserves) as one of three intensely varied and valuable botanical areas in the region. It is home to at least two rare and beautiful wildflowers as well as hundreds of acres of dense lupine and balsamroot. The spring bloom in this area is magnificent as are the expansive views in all directions and the area is accessible on minor established roadways, one reason it may be among the most photographed landscapes in the area. This is also a prehistoric and historic area, a trace of the landscape experienced by Lewis and Clark as they came down the Columbia River, and inhabited by Native American cultures long before their arrival. The Eastern Alternative crosses the Dalles Mountain as far as possible (among the proposed alternatives) from the ridge's scenic and botanical core by routing the new power line along the WA Route 14 corridor, an already degraded environment. For these two reasons, I submit my support for this alternative.
- BEKD10049 -
Harkenrider/US Forest ServiceView attached document.
View Attachment
- BEKD10050 -
Russell
The purpose of this letter is to comment on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) for the proposed Big Eddy-Knight Transmission Project and its potential impacts on the Columbia River Gorge.
It is inconceivable that, after the huge amount of dollars and and other resources invested in protecting the scenic and natural qualities of this landscape, the Columbia River Gorge, that this transmission project would be considered.
The public input process deserves to be extended and widened. And other alternatives, such as burying the power lines, need to be put forward and the preferred alternative.
Current routing alternatives affect many scenic, cultural and other resources within the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area boundary. As the BPA moves forward with this project it should develop an alternative route that avoids adverse impacts on resources within the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. If the eastern route is selected, then the transmission lines should be placed underground in order to comply with the National Scenic Area Act. Thank you for the opportunity to comment.
- BEKD10051 -
Smisken/Chairman, Yakama NationPlease see the Yakama Nation's request for government-to-government consultation regarding the Big Eddy-Knight Transmission Line Project attached.
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- BEKD10052 -
Smith
We would highly encourage you to NOT select the Western Alternative because it would cause the airport in this vicinity to be closed. It also seems that the Middle or Eastern Alternatives provide a much straighter route along a more populated area that already has high power lines where adding more will not be such an eye sore to a residential area where people have invested substantial sums of money for rural atmosphere and unobstructed views. The people in this area have deliberately selected their property and homes for investment, privacy and beautiful unobstructed views. If this power line goes through the Mustang Estates, many people will lose thousands of dollars at a time when property values are already decreasing in value due to economic recession. These investments are what many have made for future living and retirement purposes and should this power line go through here, not only will the property values drop, but selling the homes and land will be extremely difficult if not impossible.
Thank you for considering our comments. I know issues like this can be difficult. It is impossible to make everyone happy.
Sincerely, Sherry and Merlin Smith
- BEKD10053 -
PaceView attached document
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- BEKD10054 -
Till/Friends of the Columbia GorgeView attached document
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- BEKD10055 -
Stoops/Oregon Department of EnergyView document attached.
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- BEKD10057 -
Russell
Please, please, please route the transmission lines and optical cable farther to the east of The Dalles Mt. Area. That is one of the most scenic and special areas of The Columbia Gorge those of us who love The Gorge do not want it degraded any further. I think it is called the East Alternative. Thank you. Jude Russell
- BEKD10058 -
BergeronI write in SUPPORT OF THE EAST ALTERNATIVE that minimizes the scenic and on-the-ground impacts to the Dalles Mountain. I hike this area, camera at the ready, a couple times every year. This fragile landscape hosts an explosion of wildflowers of many species - the shy and the showy. It is the only place I have ever seen a horned toad in the Gorge. I want to keep coming back here for as long as I can walk - and haul the next couple generations with me. The Dalles Mountain is a local and national treasure - worthy of National Geographic coverage. When I watch nature videos of special places around the world, I think, "Hey, we've got something that good right here!" Let's preserve and protect it.
- BEKD10059 -
Form e-mail from 246 Correspondents
email from Eric Geisler:
Subject: DEIS for the Big Eddy-Knight Transmission Project
I am writing to comment on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) for the proposed Big Eddy-Knight Transmission Project and its potential impacts on the Columbia River Gorge, a place I care about protecting for future generations to enjoy.
The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area is a spectacular area, recognized by Congress for its unparalleled scenic vistas and outstanding natural landscapes. Because the project is proposed within a National Scenic Area and there is a substantial likelihood of adverse effects resulting from each one of the action alternatives, the BPA should extend the comment period to 90 days. The BPA should also hold hearings in major population areas like the Portland/Vancouver metro area so that the public has an adequate opportunity to review and comment on this project, since the project’s direct and indirect impacts could affect the entire region.
The BPA's DEIS fails to consider alternatives that avoid siting new transmission lines within the National Scenic Area. The DEIS also fails to adequately consider alternatives that would place underground all or portions of new transmissions lines within the Scenic Area. The National Scenic Area Management Plan (M.P.) requires new power lines to be underground, unless it can be demonstrated to be impracticable. (M.P. Page I-1-10) "Practicable" is defined as "able to be done, considering technology and cost." (M.P. Glossary-14) Clearly, the BPA is able to place the lines underground and should, considering the proposed alternatives are located within a congressionally designated National Scenic Area.
Aside from the "No Action" alternative, all of the alternatives under consideration are likely to harm scenic, natural, cultural and recreation resources within the Scenic Area in violation of the National Environmental Policy Act and the National Scenic Area Act. However, the eastern route follows an existing power line easement through the Scenic Area and appears to have less impacts than the middle and west alternatives.
The western and middle alternatives should have been dropped from consideration during the "scoping" phase of environmental review. These routes are near or within a state park, a natural area preserve, the Columbia Hills "Important Bird Area," rare plant habitat, oak woodlands listed as critical habitat in Washington State, and endangered species habitat. The western route would pass through the National Scenic Area, Columbia Hills State Parks and Columbia Hills Natural Area Preserve, resulting in egregious impacts to scenic, natural, cultural and recreation resources.
As the BPA moves forward with this project it should develop an alternative route that avoids adverse impacts on resources within the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. If the eastern route is selected, then the transmission lines should be placed underground in order to comply with the National Scenic Area Act. Thank you for the opportunity to comment.
View document attached.
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- BEKD10060 -
Kissler/Kissler Family TrustView attached document.
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- BEKD10061 -
FoerstermannView attached document
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- BEKD10062 -
Harris/Washington State Parks and Recreation CommissionView attached document.
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- BEKD10063 -
Schimschokview attached document
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- BEKD10064 -
Griswoldview attached document
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- BEKD10066 -
Till/Friends of the Columbia GorgeView attachment
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