A hydropower project of sorts in central Wyoming may stabilize energy demand during peaks but at the expense of the famed North Platte watershed. Analogous to a reserve hydropower battery, pumped storage projects utilize reservoir water to produce hydropower during periods of high power demand. It’s a good idea in theory, but Trout Unlimited and other conservation groups are concerned about harmful ecological impacts. Their action alert calling on the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to conduct a complete environmental review concludes Friday, March 14th.
Potential negative impacts to Wyoming’s North Platte and famed Miracle Mile include: water temperatures exceeding thresholds, increased turbidity, diminished flows, and more. These impacts stand to threaten a truly world class trout destination, prime habitat for bighorn sheep, and other outdoor recreation activities.
“The Miracle Mile is a world-class trout fishery that draws anglers from across the country and fuels local economies, but the Seminoe Pumped Storage Project poses serious risks to its water quality, fish populations, and surrounding habitat,” said Patrick Harrington, TU’s Wyoming Government Relations Director. “Trout Unlimited supports responsible energy development, but not at the expense of one of Wyoming’s most treasured fisheries. A full Environmental Impact Statement is essential to ensure this project doesn’t irreversibly harm the North Platte River ecosystem and the communities that depend on it.”
If you’ve ever fished the famed stretches of the North Platte or have dreams of making it out to this blue ribbon fishery, be sure to check out the TU Petition and make your voice heard.
Cover picture courtesy of Steven Brutger.
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