News Release Archive

Reclamation releases draft environmental document for Native American backup drinking well project

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

For Release: September 17, 2018

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The Bureau of Reclamation has released a draft environmental document for public review on the Big Valley Band of Pomo Indians of Big Valley Rancheria project to construct a backup drinking well on tribal property.

The Big Valley Rancheria water treatment system requires an additional well when the existing well is shut down for repairs and routine maintenance. Lack of a backup well creates a serious vulnerability for the tribe’s ability to provide continuous supply of water for domestic use and fire suppression.

Reclamation prepared an Environmental Assessment to disclose potential environmental effects and to solicit public comment on the proposed project, which must be completed before construction begins.

The EA was prepared in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act and may be viewed at https://www.usbr.gov/mp/nepa/nepa_project_details.php?Project_ID=34101. The document may also be viewed at the below address.

Written comments are due by close of business Oct. 1, 2018 to Doug Kleinsmith, Bureau of Reclamation, 2800 Cottage Way, Sacramento, CA 95825 or dkleinsmith@usbr.gov. For additional information, or to receive a copy of the document, please contact Kleinsmith at 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.