Small Hydro Plant in Illinois Up for Environmental Scrutiny
Published Date: 3/4/2025
Notice
Summary
Midwest Hydro, LLC wants to keep running its small Rockton Hydroelectric Project in Illinois, so the government is getting ready to check how it might affect the environment. They’ll share a report in February 2026 and ask for public feedback by March. This means local folks, landowners, and community groups can have their say before any final decisions are made.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
EA Issued; Public Comment Window
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission will issue an Environmental Assessment (EA) for the 1.10-megawatt Rockton Hydroelectric Project in February 2026, and the public may file comments in March 2026. If you live near the Rock River in Rockton, Winnebago County, Illinois, you can review the EA and submit comments during that March 2026 comment period.
Help Available from FERC Public Office
The Commission's Office of Public Participation (OPP) can help members of the public—including landowners, community organizations, and Tribal members—access information and make filings like comments or interventions for the Rockton Project. The notice lists OPP contact options and also gives a project contact (Laura Washington) for questions.
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