New York Hydro Project: Share Your Eco Thoughts by October
Published Date: 9/25/2025
Notice
Summary
Forestport Hydro, LLC wants to renew its license to run a hydroelectric project on the Black River in New York. The government is asking the public to share their thoughts on how this might affect the environment before deciding. If you care about clean energy or local nature, now’s the time to speak up—comments are due by October 20, 2025.
Analyzed Economic Effects
6 provisions identified: 5 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
Minimum flow will continue at 140 cfs
Forestport Hydro proposes to continue releasing a minimum flow of 140 cubic feet per second (cfs) or inflow, whichever is less, over the Forestport Dam. That operational condition will apply if the project is relicensed and will factor into the environmental review of aquatic and recreation resources.
Public scoping comments due October 20, 2025
You can submit written comments about the environmental scope of the Forestport Hydroelectric Project; the Commission must receive comments by 5:00 p.m. Eastern on October 20, 2025. The notice explains electronic filing options (eFiling and eComment) and mail addresses to send paper comments.
Recreation facilities will be maintained
Forestport Hydro proposes to continue to maintain existing project recreation facilities including parking and access areas at Alder Pond and the Forestport impoundment, and to update directional and safety signage. This means people who boat, fish, or visit those sites on the Black River in Oneida County, New York can expect continued access and signage under the proposed license.
Portage take-out will be relocated
The applicant proposes to move the power canal portage take-out site upstream of the boat barrier. This change affects people who use the approximately 1,200-foot and 150-foot portage routes and other boaters on the Black River near Forestport, New York.
Wildlife and invasive species plans proposed
The applicant proposes to implement a Bat and Bald Eagle Management Plan and an Invasive Species Management Plan as part of continued project operations. These plans would be part of the environmental analysis the Commission will consider when deciding on relicensing.
Cultural resources consultation required
To protect cultural resources, the applicant proposes to consult with the New York State Historic Preservation Officer before beginning any land‑clearing or land‑disturbing activities. This requirement would affect landowners, Tribal members, and others with cultural-resource interests near the project in Oneida County, New York.
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