Virginia James River Hydro Plan Sparks Public Scoping Session
Published Date: 3/6/2025
Notice
Summary
Scott's Mill Hydro, LLC wants to build a new hydroelectric project on the James River in Virginia. The government is asking the public to share their thoughts by March 28, 2025, to help shape the project’s review. This could affect local communities and the environment, and it’s the first step before any money or construction decisions happen.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 1 mixed.
New 4.5 MW Hydroelectric Project Proposed
Scott's Mill Hydro, LLC proposes a new hydroelectric project on the James River that would install nine turbine-generator units (total 4.5 megawatts) and create an impoundment with a 303.4-acre surface area at a normal pool elevation of 516.4 feet NAVD88. The proposal includes modifying the dam (removing the top 6.8 feet of the arch-section spillway and adding 2-foot-high flashboards to the main spillway) and building a new 1,200-foot-long transmission line to connect to an existing substation.
New River Recreation Access Features
Scott's Mill proposes to build recreational facilities including two eel ramps, a fishing pier downstream of the eastern end of the dam, a portage trail around the eastern side of the dam, and a boat ramp with a parking area on the eastern bank near Harris Creek. These features are part of the project proposal described in the filing.
Run‑of‑River Operation and Flow Changes
Scott's Mill proposes to operate the project in run-of-river mode, maintaining the impoundment at least 1 inch above the top of 2-foot flashboards and producing continuous spill flows over the main spillway of between 30 and 40 cubic feet per second (cfs). The applicant notes possible excavation of a downstream riffle area and Anthony Island to balance downstream flows.
Public Scoping Comment Deadline
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission is asking for written scoping comments on the Scott's Mill Hydroelectric Project by March 28, 2025. You can file electronically via FERC's eFiling or eComment systems or mail paper comments to the Commission addresses listed in the notice.
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Key Dates
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