News Release Archive

Reclamation finalizes analysis of hydroelectric project near Grass Valley

Media Contact: Erin Curtis, 916-978-5100, eccurtis@usbr.gov

For Release: November 27, 2017

GRASS VALLEY, Calif. – The Bureau of Reclamation signed a Finding of No Significant Impact for Nevada Irrigation District to construct and operate a hydroelectric generation station near its Loma Rica Water Treatment Plant, near Grass Valley in Nevada County.

Reclamation proposes to provide NID $285,000 through a 2014 WaterSMART Water Energy and Efficiency Grant to help fund the $3.8 million project.

The concrete building would enclose a turbine and generator capable of producing up to 1.4 megawatts and would allow NID to maximize hydropower potential, help offset electrical costs within the system and provide a potential source of income for NID. The facility would take advantage of existing piping and flow that was constructed for the Banner Cascade Pipeline project completed in 2012.

The FONSI was prepared in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act and may be viewed at at https://www.usbr.gov/mp/nepa/nepa_project_details.php?Project_ID=29673.

For additional information, please contact Doug Kleinsmith at dkleinsmith@usbr.gov, or 916-978-5034 (TTY 800-877-8339).

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The Bureau of Reclamation is a federal agency under the U.S. Department of the Interior and is the nation's largest wholesale water supplier and second largest producer of hydroelectric power. Our facilities also provide substantial flood control, recreation opportunities, and environmental benefits. Visit our website at https://www.usbr.gov and follow us on Twitter @USBR; Facebook @bureau.of.reclamation; LinkedIn @Bureau of Reclamation; Instagram @bureau_of_reclamation; and YouTube @reclamation.