Greenup Hydroelectric Project Environmental Review

Strategic Insights -

The Greenup Hydroelectric Project, located on the Ohio River, has submitted an environmental review document to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. The Kentucky Department for Environmental Protection has reviewed the project and provided comments. The review process involves various agencies, including the Army Corps of Engineers, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and the Ohio River Valley Water Sanitation Commission.

Key Takeaways:

  • The project is located on the Ohio River, where flows are controlled by 19 Corps locks and dams. The proposed work is endorsed by the Groundwater Section of the Watershed Management Branch.
  • The project may impact federally or state listed species and natural communities. The Kentucky Biological Assessment Tool (kynaturepreserves.org) should be consulted for information on listed species within the project area.
  • The proposed project will not impact any delineated source water protection zones. However, the Water Quality Branch notes that the Ohio River from Ohio River mile 343.3 to 341.3 is an Outstanding State Resource Water (OSRW) due to the presence of a federally listed threatened or endangered species.
  • Any UST's encountered during project construction should be reported to the KDWM. Any UST issues or questions should be directed to the UST Branch.
  • The Superfund Branch records indicate superfund site issues within the project impact area, including Hurst Sanitary Landfill and Chemical Leaman.
  • Solid waste generated by this project must be disposed of at a permitted facility. If asbestos, lead paint, and/or other contaminants are encountered during this project, contact the Division of Waste Management for proper disposal and closure.
  • The project may require permits from the US Army Corps of Engineers and 401 Water Quality Certification.

Statistics:

  • 19 Corps locks and dams control flows in the Ohio River.
  • 3 superfund sites have been identified within the project impact area: Hurst Sanitary Landfill, Chemical Leaman, and an unknown Superfund site.
  • 2 underground storage tank (UST) sites have been identified within the project impact area: Clarks Pump N Shop #72 and Greenup Locks & Dam.
  • 2 permitted facilities have been identified for the disposal of solid waste generated by the project.

Sources:

  • U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
  • U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
  • Ohio River Valley Water Sanitation Commission
  • Kentucky Department for Environmental Protection