The bill directs the Secretary of the Interior (acting through the Commissioner of Reclamation), in consultation with the Secretary of Energy and Colorado River Storage Project power contractors, to carry out a feasibility study on a selective water withdrawal system at Glen Canyon Dam. The study must include hydrological modeling and evaluate options that aim to optimize hydropower generation when releasing cold water while also preventing entrainment of invasive species. The study must follow the 2016 Long-Term Experimental and Management Plan Record of Decision and the 2024 Long-Term Experimental and Management Plan Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement and Record of Decision. The Secretary must complete the study within 18 months of the bill's enactment. If a studied alternative is found feasible under reclamation laws and the power contractors concur, the Secretary may begin compliance and construction of the chosen alternative.
This bill requires a detailed study of a new water withdrawal system at Glen Canyon Dam. It does not itself build the system. The study could lead to construction only if the alternative is found feasible and the project contractors agree. The study must be finished within 18 months of enactment, and the Interior Department must identify funding sources within 90 days.
The feasibility study costs are to be paid by the Secretary using appropriated funds. Any federal funds made available for this section are specified as nonreimbursable and nonreturnable to the United States. The Secretary must identify sources of available funds within 90 days after enactment. No publicly available information on the total cost of the study or construction is provided in the bill text.
No publicly available information.
No publicly available information.