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Region 8 comments on latest Animas-LaPlata impact statement

Release Date: 4/18/2000
Contact Information:
(303) 312-6228,

Release Date: 4/18/2000
Contact Information:
(303) 312-6025,

Release Date: 4/18/2000
Contact Information:
(303) 312-6780

DENVER -- In a letter sent yesterday, [pdf format] the Environmental Protection Agency notified the Bureau of Reclamation that it has continuing concerns about the proposed Animas-LaPlata Project and needs additional information about two alternatives described in an environmental impact statement for the project.

Signed by EPA Regional Administrator in Denver Bill Yellowtail, the letter asks for more detail as to how the impacts of alternatives are being compared . The Agency feels the Bureau focused mainly on a comparison of the acres of wetlands that would be lost with little attention to differences in the functions of the wetlands and impacts on native fisheries and upland species habitat. EPA wants to know more about the criteria used to evaluate the alternatives.

EPA suggested that the final impact statement provide “detailed plans for mitigation of wetland and other habitats.” The Agency wants to know if lands targeted for mitigation are available and if water intended to offset impacts on native fish habitats is available.

The Regional EPA feels it needs more information to be able to advise Congress whether “Refined Alternative 4" (which includes Ridges Basin reservoir) complies with a key section of the Clean Water Act. Additionally, EPA feels the draft impact statement “does not provide sufficient information regarding the analysis of the least damaging alternative.”

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