Michigan Hydro Project: Comments Welcome, Drama Optional
Published Date: 12/8/2025
Notice
Summary
STS Hydropower and Van Buren Township in Michigan want to run a new hydroelectric project on the Huron River. The government is reviewing their application and asking the public to share thoughts or concerns by early 2026. This project could affect local water and wildlife, so your input matters before any final decisions or costs are set.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 4 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Water quality certification filing required
The applicant must file by February 2, 2026 (by 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time) either: (1) a copy of the water quality certification; (2) a copy of the request for certification with proof of the date the certifying agency received it; or (3) evidence of waiver of water quality certification. This filing is part of the licensing record for the French Landing Hydroelectric Project on the Huron River.
Recreation access maintained and improved
The applicants say they will continue to maintain the project recreation facilities at French Landing Park (including two paved parking areas for a total of 19 vehicles, a boardwalk with fishing platform, and restroom) and will enhance the approximately 1,150-foot portage route trail and stairs to the put-in site. If you use the park, boat launch, or tailrace fishing access, these facilities are expected to be kept and improved under the proposed license terms.
Plans for invasive species and operations monitoring
The applicants propose to develop an operation compliance monitoring plan and an invasive species management plan as part of the new license. These plans are intended to guide how the project will monitor operations and address invasive species in the impoundment and river.
Public comment and intervention deadlines
The Commission is accepting motions to intervene, protests, comments, recommendations, preliminary terms and conditions, and preliminary fishway prescriptions related to the French Landing project through February 2, 2026 by 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time; reply comments are due March 18, 2026 by 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time. Only parties who file motions to intervene may become formal parties to the proceeding.
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