Draining Maine River to Fix Fish Ladders: Salmon in the Spotlight
Published Date: 8/4/2025
Notice
Summary
Great Lakes Hydro America wants to lower water levels in the Mattaceunk Hydroelectric Project on Maine’s Penobscot River from early August to late September 2025. This temporary change helps fix fishway structures and a sluice gate but might affect endangered Atlantic salmon. The government is reviewing the plan carefully and asked for public feedback by June 2025.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Temporary 22‑Foot Reservoir Drawdown
The project licensee asks to lower the Mattaceunk Project impoundment to approximately 22 feet below the full pond elevation of 218 feet to facilitate maintenance on upstream fishway structures and a sluice gate. The drawdown is proposed for approximately early August to late September 2025.
Adverse Effects on Endangered Atlantic Salmon
Commission staff concluded the proposed drawdown and associated maintenance and debris removal are likely to adversely affect the Gulf of Maine Distinct Population Segment (GOM DPS) of Atlantic salmon, a federally listed endangered species. The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) issued a biological opinion concluding the action may adversely affect but is not likely to jeopardize the GOM DPS and included an Incidental Take Statement with one reasonable and prudent measure, six terms and conditions, and two conservation recommendations.
EA Scheduled; Public Participation Support
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission staff intends to prepare an environmental assessment and plans to issue the EA by September 10, 2025. The Commission's Office of Public Participation offers assistance to members of the public (including landowners, community organizations, and Tribal members) to access information and help with filing interventions, comments, or rehearing requests; contact details (phone and email) are provided in the notice.
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