BPA is preparing an Environmental Impact Statement that analyzes the reintroduction of Coho salmon into the Mid-Columbia River basin tributaries in Chelan and Okanogan counties, Wash. by the Yakama Nation. As mitigation under the Pacific Northwest Electric Power Planning and Conservation Act (Northwest Power Act), BPA proposes to fund the construction of new permanent and temporary facilities for broodstock development, and modification of existing ponds or side channels to serve as semi-natural rearing and acclimation areas for juvenile Coho salmon in the Methow and Wenatchee basins. The reintroduction project also proposes to use existing adult capture facilities, and the Willard and Winthrop National Fish Hatcheries. A reduced production and a no action alternative will also be considered in the EIS.

The proposal is the culmination of the Mid-Columbia Coho salmon reintroduction feasibility project, which has been ongoing in the Wenatchee and Methow subbasins for over ten years. BPA published an environmental assessment and finding of no significant impact on the feasibility phase of the project in April 1999.

public scoping meeting information: www.bpa.gov/corporate/public_affairs/calendar/