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Reclamation Media Contact: Buck Feist, 406-247-7607, or bfeist@gp.usbr.gov FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 2/17/2004 Information about Proposed Canyon Ferry Contract Renewals Now Available Online BILLINGS—The Bureau of Reclamation has created a Web site to inform the public about issues and activities related to the proposed renewal of three long-term water service contracts at Canyon Ferry Reservoir. Reclamation is proposing to renew contracts with the Helena Valley Irrigation District, Toston Irrigation District, and the City of Helena. The site, www.usbr.gov/gp/mtao/canyonferry/, provides background data about the proposed contract renewals as well as updated news on public meetings, comment periods, and other related events. In accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), Reclamation will prepare an environmental assessment (EA) to determine whether contract renewal may result in potentially-significant environmental impacts. This process will include a formal scoping period, and open-house meetings are planned for both Townsend and Helena at dates and times to be announced. Information about all upcoming public meetings will be posted to the site immediately once details have been finalized. Reclamation will use the site as a means to foster public involvement during the decision-making process, and an electronic form is provided for submitting questions to the agency. Users can also use the site to sign-up for the project mailing list and receive periodic information about the proposed contract renewals through the postal service. ## |