Wedoany.com Report-Nov 14,   The Bureau of Reclamation, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and Bonneville Power Administration have prepared a draft programmatic environmental assessment for the Phase 2 Implementation Plan and are seeking comments. The document outlines the federal support of the P2IP, developed by the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, Spokane Tribe of Indians, Coeur d’Alene Tribe, and Upper Columbia United Tribes, to test the feasibility of salmon reintroduction upstream of Chief Joseph and Grand Coulee dams into the historically occupied salmon habitats in the United States.

The co-lead agencies will continue to work with the Tribes as they engage in discussions with the states, federal agencies and others regarding the purpose, scope, and progress of re-introduction efforts.

The draft programmatic EA evaluates the potential environmental impacts of proposed P2IP actions that aim to test the feasibility of reintroducing salmon in the upper Columbia River Basin through juvenile and adult salmon research studies, development and operation of fish-rearing and acclimation facilities, and the design, development, testing, and operations of interim fish passage systems.

As part of this process, the co-lead agencies invite the public to review and provide feedback on the draft programmatic EA during a 30-day public comment period, concluding on Dec. 13, 2024. Public insights are invaluable in shaping the agencies’ approach, ensuring it reflects the needs and concerns of local communities, stakeholders, and Tribal partners.