EASTON, Wash. – The Bureau of Reclamation today released the final environmental assessment and finding of no significant impact for the Kachess Dam safety project. Reclamation analyzed cost-effective measures to reduce long-term risks, per Reclamation’s Public Protection Guidelines, to maintain water deliveries throughout the Yakima basin, minimize impacts to the environment, and continue water flows for endangered species. The project area is located in Kittitas County, two miles north of Easton.
Reclamation selected the proposed action to reduce long-term risks by constructing an access road; preparing the site to develop staging areas to support construction and long-term maintenance; extend and line the conduit; and install a filter and stabilization berm.
Kachess Dam is performing as designed; the modifications address issues important to the long-term functionality. There is no immediate safety threat. Reclamation rigorously monitors the dam for any changes in performance. We are committed to ensuring its dams do not present unacceptable risk levels to people, property, and the environment as part of the Safety of Dams program mission.
The final EA and FOSI are available at https://www.usbr.gov/pn/programs/sod/kachess/index.html.
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