Avista Requests Non-Capacity Changes to Spokane River Project
Published Date: 6/24/2025
Notice
Summary
Avista Corporation wants to make some changes to its Spokane River Hydroelectric Project license, but these changes won’t affect how much power the project produces. People living near the project in Washington and Idaho, plus local and tribal groups, can share their thoughts or get involved by July 18, 2025. No big money changes are expected, but it’s a chance to speak up about the project’s future!
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Local Stakeholders Can Comment By July 18
If you live near the Spokane River project in Washington or Idaho, you can file comments, protests, or a motion to intervene with FERC by July 18, 2025 to take part in the proceeding. The notice explains how to file electronically or by paper and that only those who file a motion to intervene may become formal parties to the case.
Spillway Gates Replaced — No Capacity Change
Avista proposes to replace all existing spillway gates at the North Channel Dam within the same footprint and without any significant change in elevation, surface area, or capacity. The project would not alter the project boundary, reservoir levels, down-ramping rate, or minimum flow requirements and would continue to operate under the current license and Water Quality Certification.
Temporary Disturbance and Aesthetic Spill Pause
The proposed rehabilitation would cause temporary ground disturbance and a pause in aesthetic spills during construction at the North Channel Dam. These effects are described as temporary and no long-term impacts to project operations or environmental resources are anticipated.
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