Sturgis Dam Hydroelectric Project: Update to Historic Properties Management Plan

Strategic Insights -

The City of Sturgis, Michigan has submitted a report to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) regarding the update of the Sturgis Hydroelectric Project's Historic Properties Management Plan (HPMP). This update is necessary due to changes affecting historic properties, including the western former operator's homes. The City is consulting with FERC and the Michigan State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO) on the proposed undertaking, which includes an archaeological assessment of the Area of Potential Effect (APE).

Key Takeaways:

  • The City of Sturgis is updating the Historic Properties Management Plan (HPMP) for the Sturgis Hydroelectric Project.
  • The update is necessary due to changes affecting historic properties, including the western former operator's homes.
  • The City is consulting with FERC and the Michigan State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO) on the proposed undertaking.
  • The proposed undertaking involves an archaeological assessment of the Area of Potential Effect (APE).
  • The City has requested an extension of 60 days to update the HPMP schedule.
  • The update will capture remaining historic resources and guide future mitigation.
  • The City's opinion is that the HPMP should be updated at the completion of the proposed undertaking.
  • The proposed undertaking will affect the western former operator's homes.
  • The archaeological assessment of the APE will be conducted as part of the proposed undertaking.
  • FERC has requested supporting documentation related to maintenance, repairs, or documented conditions of the historic properties between 2007 and 2024.

Statistics:

  • The City of Sturgis is updating the HPMP for the Sturgis Hydroelectric Project.
  • The proposed undertaking involves an archaeological assessment of the APE.
  • The City has requested an extension of 60 days to update the HPMP schedule.
  • The update will capture remaining historic resources.
  • The City's opinion is that the HPMP should be updated at the completion of the proposed undertaking.

Sources:

  • Division of Hydropower Administration and Compliance (DHAC) Environmental and Project Review Branch Federal Energy Regulatory Commission 888 First Street. N.E, Washington, D.C. 20426
  • City of Sturgis, Michigan
  • Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC)
  • Michigan State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO)