Minnesota County Applies to Surrender Hydroelectric Project Exemption Status
Published Date: 4/8/2025
Notice
Summary
Blue Earth County wants to give up its special exemption for the Rapidan Dam Hydroelectric Project on the Blue Earth River near Mankato, Minnesota. The public and agencies have until May 2, 2025, to share their thoughts or get involved. This change could affect local water quality rules and how the project operates, so timely feedback is key!
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
Proposal to Remove Rapidan Dam
If you live near the Blue Earth River in Blue Earth County, Minnesota, Blue Earth County now proposes to remove the Rapidan Dam and restore the west riverbank as part of surrendering the hydroelectric project; this revised proposal was filed March 18, 2025 and follows major flood damage in June 2024. The Commission is soliciting comments, motions to intervene, and protests on the revised surrender application, with filings due May 2, 2025.
Clean Water Act §401 Certification Required
If you are the applicant (Blue Earth County), you must file either a copy of the request submitted to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency or a copy of the §401 water quality certification (or evidence the certification was waived) no later than 60 days following the date this notice was issued. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency is the certifying authority for this proposal.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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