Seefeld Dumps Hydro Exemption: Water Rules in Flux?
Published Date: 8/21/2026
Notice
Summary
Seefeld Corporation wants to give up its special exemption for the Smith Creek Hydroelectric Project in Washington. This change could affect local water quality rules and needs approval from the Washington Department of Ecology. People have until September 17, 2026, to share their thoughts or get involved before the decision moves forward.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
Washington 401 Water Quality Requirement
The surrender of the Smith Creek Hydroelectric Project requires a Clean Water Act section 401 water quality certification from the Washington Department of Ecology. The applicant must file, within 60 days after this notice was issued, either a copy of the request submitted to Washington DE or a copy of the certification or evidence of waiver.
Planned Decommissioning of Smith Creek Project
The applicant proposes to surrender its exemption and decommission the Smith Creek Hydroelectric Project by removing the weir, cutting the intake pipe above the high‑water mark and filling it with concrete, demolishing the settling tank, removing the generators, disconnecting from the electrical grid, and removing the wood portions of the powerhouse; no work is proposed within the streambed.
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Key Dates
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