Frequently Asked Questions
How long will it take to complete the EIS?
Executive Order 3355 requires completion of an EIS 365 days after the publication of the Notice of Intent.
How much water would the project take from the Missouri River System?
Up to 165 cfs (120,000 acre-feet per year); from the State’s intake on the river, from the intake on the McClusky Canal or a combination of the two.
What are the impacts of the depletion of water from the Missouri River?
These potential impacts will be evaluated as part of the EIS process.
Why is the State looking for an alternate water supply? Aren’t they already designing a river intake near Washburn and getting permits for it?
The State indicated there is a possible cost savings in construction, operation and maintenance. Yes, the State’s project includes a river intake near Washburn, and they have obtained permits for their project (http://rrvwsp.com/).
What about the Central North Dakota Project that was recently approved?
Central North Dakota Project is being developed as planned.
Does ENDAWS include Central North Dakota?
No. The request by the Garrison Diversion Conservancy District for 145 cfs of water for ENDAWS would be in addition to the Central North Dakota Project water need (20 cfs).
Can Reclamation’s existing facilities deliver 165 cfs?
Yes, the Garrison Diversion Unit facilities (i.e. Snake Creek Pumping Plant, McClusky Canal, Audubon Lake) are designed to deliver more than 2,000 cfs of water.
When will a preferred alternative be identified
Reclamation may identify a preferred alternative in the draft EIS when it is distributed for public review or it may choose to wait and identify the preferred alternative in the final EIS.
Who decides the preferred alternative in the EIS?
The preferred alternative will be selected by Reclamation.
How would the project affect water levels in Lake Sakakawea and Lake Audubon?
A depletion analysis of the Missouri River Basin is part of the EIS analysis.
Contact
Damien Reinhart
Project Manager
(701) 202-1275
ENDAWS.EIS@usbr.gov
Bureau of Reclamation
Dakotas Area Office
304 East Broadway Avenue
Bismarck, ND 58501
