BLM seeks input for proposed White Pine Waterpower project
ELY, Nev. – The Bureau of Land Management is seeking public comment on a preliminary environmental assessment analyzing feasibility of a proposed waterpower plant on public lands in Steptoe Valley.
If approved, White Pine Waterpower, LLC, will be authorized to drill two test and three monitoring wells. The wells will track groundwater response to pumping and estimate discharge and optimal pumping rates, hydrogeologic parameters, hydraulic boundaries, and approximate operating conditions for proposed production wells. Testing would take about nine days at each well after which the drill pads would be restored and reclaimed.
The preliminary environmental assessment is available online at the BLM National NEPA Register where comments may be submitted through the “Participate Now” option (preferred); written comments may also be delivered to: BLM Bristlecone Field Office, 702 North Industrial Way, Ely, NV 89301, ATTN: Hydrogeologic Investigation EA. The public comment period closes Monday, Feb. 24, 2025.
For more information, please contact Field Manager Melanie Peterson at 775-289-1896, m1peters@blm.gov.
The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.