Virginia Lake Levels Drop for Essential Reservoir Fixes
Published Date: 9/11/2025
Notice
Summary
Appalachian Power Company wants to temporarily lower water levels at Buck Reservoir in Virginia to do some important work. The public can share their thoughts or ask to join the discussion by October 8, 2025. This change might affect local water flow but aims to keep the hydroelectric project running smoothly without extra costs right now.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Buck Reservoir temporarily lowered
Appalachian Power Company requests permission to lower Buck Reservoir to 1,995 feet (about 7 feet below the normal minimum). The drawdown would proceed at 4 feet per day and the reservoir is expected to be below the normal operating range for approximately 8 weeks.
Buck canoe portage closed during work
The applicant will close the Buck canoe portage for the duration of the temporary amendment (the approximate 8-week drawdown period). Canoeists and river portage users will not have access to that portage while the work continues.
Mussels to be salvaged and relocated
Following the initial drawdown, the applicant intends to salvage and relocate mussels as part of the work at Buck Reservoir.
Public comment and intervention deadline
Anyone may file comments, protests, or motions to intervene in this proceeding; submissions must be received by October 8, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time and follow FERC filing rules.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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