SPA 124 Permit Decision Notice: Danford Ditch Headgate EWP
Jul 25, 2024 9:22 AM
The Stillwater Conservation District is sponsoring this project as part of the Emergency Watershed Protection program. Much of the Danford Ditch Irrigation infrastructure (e.g., ditch, headgate, flow check structure) was damaged in the historic 2022 flood on the Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone River and is no longer functional. Temporary stabilization of the site, under an emergency provision, addressed short-term control of water diversion and mitigated additional streambank erosion. A new, permanent design for a headgate, headwall, and additional bank protection is needed for long-term operations for the irrigation users up to the 100-year flood event.
The purpose of this project is to install a new headgate, headwall, and provide additional bank protection to ensure for long-term operations of the irrigation system and protection of the streambank up to the 100-year flood events. Leaving the site in its existing condition allows for water control into the irrigation ditch system but is challenging to access and control the headgates and could fail during the next high-water event.
Based on the environmental review provided in the Draft EA, and, to the greatest extent possible, in accordance with all applicable laws, rules, regulations, and policies, FWP determined the proposed action (Alternative 2), will not have significant adverse impacts on the human environment associated with the proposed action and constitutes a reasonable and appropriate strategy to achieve identified objectives. Therefore, preparation of an environmental impact statement or EIS is unnecessary.
FWP hereby adopts the Draft EA as final and approves Alternative 2, the Proposed Action.