SPA 124 PERMIT East Fork Dam Beaver Dam Removal

Decision Notice

The proposed project is to remove three beaver dams below East Fork Dam on East Fork Rock Creek using a small excavator and allow the ponded waters to drain. Removing these dams and allowing the water to flow back into the river system should allow for proper drainage and seepage monitoring of the East Fork Dam. These beaver dams have caused significant ponding of the downstream area which is hindering the monitoring of existing dam seepage features that is necessary for dam safety assessments. Additionally, pond levels are encroaching on the seepage vault drain and are reducing drainage capability. 

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 and constitutes a reasonable and appropriate strategy to achieve identified objectives. Therefore, preparation of an environmental impact statement or EIS is unnecessary.  DNRC feels it is necessary to remove these dams to maintain seepage and to assist with rehabilitation efforts and MFWP feels that this effort should have minimal impacts.    

FWP hereby adopts the Draft EA as final and approves Alternative 2, the Proposed Action.

Related Documents: 

FWP-CEA-FSH-124-R2-06182024-003
FWP-DN-FSH-124-R2-06182024-003