To: Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
Tell FERC: Don’t Rubber-Stamp Environmental Review
21 freshwaters species cling to existence on Alabama’s Coosa River where 7 dams block 225 miles of the river. The river was once one of the most biologically diverse rivers in the world. But the dams caused one of the largest extinctions in North America -- nearly 30 freshwater species were killed. We ask that the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission [FERC] complete more thorough environmental studies to ensure protections are in place to balance the river’s health with hydropower production.
Why is this important?
On June 2013, FERC issued a new 30-year license to Alabama Power Company for the continued operation of the Coosa River Hydroelectric Project. The license permits operation of seven dams spanning 225 miles of the Coosa River. Since the seven dams were built, the Coosa River has seen one of the largest extinctions in North America. Nearly 30 freshwater species have become extinct, largely due to the dams. An additional 21 freshwater species in the area are listed as endangered or threatened. The new license does little to help put these species on the road to recovery. FERC must act now to better balance energy needs with the health of the river.