§410aaa–51 Utility Rights-of-way

Summary

Keeps existing utility rights-of-way and normal work in place on Mojave National Preserve lands that are not wilderness. Southern California Edison may upgrade or replace its Eldorado-Lugo and Mojave-Lugo transmission lines or build in an adjacent right-of-way to increase capacity, but with limits: Eldorado may never have more than three transmission lines; in the Mojave area any old line must be removed and the site reclaimed within three years after new construction starts, and after that only one line may remain there; if Eldorado has no more than two lines, the Mojave area may have two; no extra land may be added for upgrades unless it reduces harm; an adjacent right-of-way south of the Mojave area may add up to 350 feet unless a larger addition would reduce harm; and upgrades, including helicopter work, must minimize harm. The Secretary must make emergency access plans with Southern California Edison within 180 days after October 31, 1994. The same rules protect Southern California Gas Company’s valid rights-of-way and let it upgrade pipelines to increase capacity, with the Secretary making emergency access plans for that company in the same 180‑day time. Existing communications cables or lines can keep operating and be maintained. Rights held by Molybdenum Corporation of America; Molycorp, Incorporated; or Union Oil Company of California (Unocal) may continue and be renewed. All activities must be done to minimize impacts on preserve resources.