Columbia River System Operations
Supplemental Final Environmental Impact Statement
Eastern view of the upper Columbia River Gorge Vista House
Public comments on the Columbia River System Supplemental EIS can be submitted at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Public Comment Page.
The Bureau of Reclamation and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, as co-lead agencies, issued a notice of intent, December 18, 2024, in the Federal Register to begin a 90-day public comment period.
The agencies are supplementing the 2020 Columbia River System Operations Final Environmental Impact Statement to address new information and changed circumstances since its publication. The 2020 EIS analyzed the coordinated operation and maintenance of 14 federal dams and facilities throughout the Columbia River Basin. This supplemental EIS will incorporate updated data, including changes to system operations, new ESA-listed species like the wolverine, and recent studies.
This decision follows a fall 2024 review that included input from Tribes, stakeholders, and federal and state agencies. The SEIS process reflects the agencies' commitment to collaborative dialogue and rigorous environmental review under NEPA.
Public input is essential to this effort. Scoping comments are invited from Tribes, agencies, and the public through March 20, 2025. At least three virtual public meetings will be held the week of February 10, 2025, with details to be posted early in the new year.
Meanwhile, Reclamation and the Corps will continue operating the Columbia River System to meet its authorized purposes, including flood risk management, water supply, hydropower. navigation, recreation, and fish and wildlife conservation.
Public comments on the Columbia River System Supplemental EIS can be submitted at the Columbia River System Public Comment Page .
Contact
columbiariver@usace.army.mil