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HomeMy WebLinkAbout06.21.21 Board Correspondence - FERC From:Paulsen, Shaina To:Alpert, Bruce;Bennett, Robin;Clerk of the Board;Connelly, Bill;Cook, Holly;Cook, Robin;Hironimus, Patrizia; Kimmelshue, Tod;Lucero, Debra;Paulsen, Shaina;Pickett, Andy;Reaster, Kayla;Ring, Brian;Ritter, Tami; Sweeney, Kathleen;Teeter, Doug Subject:Board Correspondence - FERC Date:Monday, June 21, 2021 10:15:24 AM Attachments:FERC 06.09-06.17.21.pdf Good Morning, Please see Board Correspondence from FERC received between 06.07.21-06.17.21. Shaina Paulsen Administrative Assistant, Senior Butte County Administration 25 County Center Drive, Suite 200 Oroville, CA 95965 T: 530.552.3304 | F: 530.538.7120 From:"FERC eSubscription" Subject:Comment on Filing submitted in FERC P-619-164 by Advisory Council on Historic Preservation,et al. Date:Wednesday, June 9, 2021 4:46:04 AM .ATTENTION: This message originated from outside Butte County. Please exercise judgment before opening attachments, clicking on links, or replying.. On 6/9/2021, the following Filing was submitted to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), Washington D.C.: Filer: Advisory Council on Historic Preservation Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (as Agent) Docket(s): P-619-164 Lead Applicant: Pacific Gas and Electric Company Filing Type: Comment on Filing Description: Comments of Advisory Council on Historic Preservation on State Historic Preservation Officer and United States Forest Service concerns about proposed final Programmatic Agreement under P-619. To view the document for this Filing, click here https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://elibrary.ferc.gov/eLibrary/filelist?accession_num=20210609- 5005__;!!KNMwiTCp4spf!UmaPutf9JgXu6su7EiiIpEs9axBPqoeUd118O4sK7665KHQ_Ny6w2Jm_seo3DoF7iwLP_X0M6KA$ To modify your subscriptions, click here: https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://ferconline.ferc.gov/eSubscription.aspx__;!!KNMwiTCp4spf!UmaPutf9JgXu6su7EiiIpEs9axBPqoeUd118O4sK7665KHQ_Ny6w2Jm_seo3DoF7iwLPNpJiyXo$ ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Please do not respond to this email. Online help is available here: https://urldefense.com/v3/__http://www.ferc.gov/efiling-help.asp__;!!KNMwiTCp4spf!UmaPutf9JgXu6su7EiiIpEs9axBPqoeUd118O4sK7665KHQ_Ny6w2Jm_seo3DoF7iwLP72phISI$ or for phone support, call 866-208-3676. June 8, 2021 Mr. Vince Yearick Director Division of Hydropower Licensing Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Washington, D.C. 20426 Ref. Bucks Creek Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 619164 Plumas County, California ACHP Project Number: 016784 Dear Mr. Yearick: On May 13, 2021, the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (ACHP) formally entered the consultation being conducted by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for compliance with Section 106 (54 U.S.C. § 306108) of the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) (54 U.S.C. § 800). Our decision to participate in consultation was made in response to your April 16, 2021, letter, in which you requested the ACHP assistance in resolving concerns expressed by the California State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO) and the Plumas National Forest, a unit of the United States Forest Service (USFS), regarding modifications to the draft Programmatic Agreement (PA) developed by FERC to complete the Section 106 review. In this letter, we provide recommendations regarding minor edits to the current draft PA, which we believe would address those concerns in a reasonable way. In generating the undertPA, FERC relied on a PA template used for hydroelectric projects. The PA references and incorporates an Historic Properties Management Plan (HPMP) developed by the proponent in consultation with consulting parties. The HPMP details protocols for consultation to identify and resolve adverse effects to historic properties during operation, maintenance, and upgrade of the hydroelectric project that is covered under the license. The content of the HPMP follows Guidelines for the Development of Historic Properties Management Plans (Guidelines), developed by FERC and ACHP and circulated in 2002. FERC issued an initial draft of the PA based on its template PA on October 22, 2019, which was commented on by the SHPO on March 2, 2020, and USFS on November 18, 2019. FERC issued a letter with a proposed final version of the PA on January 29, 2021. SHPO provided follow-up comments in a letter of May 6, 2021, reaffirming its requested modifications. The USFS provided ACHP with follow-up comments in May 2021, also reaffirming its earlier comments. The comments focus on the need to include several stipulations in the PA that would affirm the central role of the SHPO in helping to administer the ongoing Section 106 review for the project over the license. The SHPO believes that its role in advising, reviewing, and commenting on the federal , as reflected by its status as a required signatory, is not appropriately recognized when it is almost entirely subsumed in an attachment to the PA. The USFS 2 made several general comments on the PA, but its primary concern focused on its request to be a signatory on the PA. This request was made because a large portion of the land utilized by the project is located on USFS land, and the USFS has responsibilities related to historic properties on that land. Further, it has ongoing relationships with stakeholders, including federally recognized tribes, who may ascribe significance to those properties in its ownership. In its letter of January 29, 2021, FERC suggested that most of the modifications to the final PA requested by SHPO and USFS were unnecessary because the protocols to address those issues were already included in the associated HPMP. In responding to the USFS request to be a signatory, FERC indicated that it has an established policy to limit signatories to those whose signature is needed to legally execute the agreement. FERC also opined that ACHP has in the past affirmed that practice. The ACHP finds the primary concerns of the SHPO and the USFS reasonable, and FERC should take steps to incorporate their comments into a revised draft PA. A Section 106 agreement memorializes a and should set forth a process that incorporates the participation as the agency that represents the interests of the people of the state. The agreement should also recognize that the SHPO provides guidance and assistance to the federal agency, as well as monitoring their compliance, and providing necessary concurrence or objection regarding the identification of historic properties, determinations of eligibility, findings of effect, and the resolution of adverse effect. Because of the importance of that role, the SHPO is a required signatory for the legal execution of a Section 106 agreement. An HPMP is an attachment to and an extension of a PA, and derives its authority from the PA. To the extent that the SHPOs role in an ongoing Section 106 review under the PA is outlined primarily in the HPMP and centered on interaction only with the project proponent, the role of the SHPO may be . Many of the changes to the PA that the SHPO has proposed focus on the ongoing consultation process to monitor and ensure that the HPMP implementation continues to successfully support the ongoing Section 106 review, and would be better situated in the PA that establishes and controls the HPMP. Therefore, we recommend that stipulations related to federal agency and SHPO oversight of the HPMP be added to the PA itself, including: (1) amendment of the HPMP without requiring amendment of the PA; (2) amendment of the Area of Potential Effect (APE) for the project as a whole; and (3) the creation, comment, and finalization of an annual report on implementation in conjunction with an annual meeting. We recognize that protocols covering these issues are included in the HPMP. However, for the reasons stated above, these should be clearly presented as stipulations in the PA, modifying the HPMP as appropriate to ensure that the PA and the HPMP are consistent. The ACHP also suggests that the dispute resolution protocol in the HPMP be made consistent with the dispute resolution stipulation in the PA. Regarding the to the PA, the USFS has emphasized that a large portion of the land utilized by the project is under their management and control. As such, the USFS believes it has an ongoing responsibility to the historic properties on its land that may be affected by the undertaking and is therefore obliged to be actively engaged in the ongoing terms and its associated HPMP. The USFS also recognizes an active responsibility to consult with federally recognized tribes and other stakeholders who may ascribe significance to historic properties on USFS land within the APE, and who may have concerns about effects. Further, USFS staff have suggested that it may have review and authorization responsibilities related to leased cabins around Bucks Lake, issuance of residence permits that overlap the boundary of the hydroelectric project covered by the FERC license, approvals related to shoreline management, and responsibilities under other environmental laws, including the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act, associated with the ongoing operation of the licensed project on USFS land. 3 It is the ACHPto the extent that USFS will have any federal actions (authorizations or assistance) related to any activities associated with ongoing operation, maintenance, and upgrade of the hydroelectric project covered by the license, then USFS also has an obligation to comply with Section 106, and therefore, FERC should invite USFS to be a signatory. It continues to be the that other federal agencies that have federal actions related to the undertaking, who are not the lead federal agency, are not mandatory signatories for the agreement consistent with 36 CFR § 800.6(c)(1). Their signature is not required for legal execution of the agreement. However, if they have responsibilities related to Section 106 under the terms of the agreement, the lead federal agency should invite them to be an invited signatory, as clearly stated at 36 CFR § 800.6(c)(2)(iii). assertion that a 2007 ACHP letter for a different undertaking requiring a FERC license serves as guidance applicable to the request is incorrect, and FERC should reconsider how it characterizes our earlier advice, which was specific to those circumstances. While responsibility, having an internal policy of not making such an invitation is inconsistent with the regulations, which encourage open and good faith consultation. As a consulting party, the ACHP offers these advisory comments to assist FERC in completing the Section 106 review for the referenced undertaking. We look forward to participating in an upcoming consultation meeting to discuss and resolve these issues. We also note that the issues raised in this consultation reinforce the need, as FERC, ACHP, and numerous SHPOs have suggested, for our agencies to follow-up on our intention to update the outline for HPMPs, in consultation with representative SHPOs and tribes, to address appropriate modifications necessitated by the passage of time. We should also consider any necessary associated updates to the standard PA templates FERC uses when HPMPs are completed prior to PA execution and those used when HPMPs will be completed after PA execution. It is important to remember that while such Guidelines and PA templates, even when appropriately updated, are helpful in guiding the consultation process, they are not an approved program alternative pursuant to parties in any particular Section 106 review to ensure their concerns are addressed. Should you have any questions or wish to discuss this matter further, please contact John T. Eddins, PhD at 202-517-0211, or by e-mail at jeddins@achp.gov. Sincerely, Jaime Loichinger Assistant Director Federal Permitting, Licensing, and Assistance Section Office of Federal Agency Programs From:"FERC eSubscription" Subject:DOCKET CHANGE- Project Operations Compliance Report submitted in FERC P-2107-043 by Pacific Gas and Electric Company,et al. Date:Tuesday, June 15, 2021 4:50:06 AM .ATTENTION: This message originated from outside Butte County. Please exercise judgment before opening attachments, clicking on links, or replying.. On 3/19/2020, the following Filing was submitted to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), Washington D.C.: Filer: Pacific Gas and Electric Company PGE (as Agent) Docket(s): P-2107-043 Lead Applicant: Pacific Gas and Electric Company Filing Type: Project Operations Compliance Report Description: Pacific Gas and Electric Company under P-2107, Poe Project, Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan- Request for Approval To view the document for this Filing, click here https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://elibrary.ferc.gov/eLibrary/filelist?accession_num=20200319- 5127__;!!KNMwiTCp4spf!TyRPknbowoAA40Tkmwonr7CBylG2gH758BVnyRQilhMhrkaEPkstaKKbS00ZreUlPkBCNMnZWJk$ To modify your subscriptions, click here: https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://ferconline.ferc.gov/eSubscription.aspx__;!!KNMwiTCp4spf!TyRPknbowoAA40Tkmwonr7CBylG2gH758BVnyRQilhMhrkaEPkstaKKbS00ZreUlPkBCaKxttao$ ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Please do not respond to this email. Online help is available here: https://urldefense.com/v3/__http://www.ferc.gov/efiling-help.asp__;!!KNMwiTCp4spf!TyRPknbowoAA40Tkmwonr7CBylG2gH758BVnyRQilhMhrkaEPkstaKKbS00ZreUlPkBCL66Fsac$ or for phone support, call 866-208-3676. Enclosure A Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan PACIFIC GAS AND ELECTRIC COMPANY Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 POE RIPARIAN MONITORING PLAN Prepared for: Pacific Gas & Electric Company 3401 Crow Canyon Road San Ramon, CA 94583 Prepared by: Cardno, Inc. 2890 Gateway Oaks Drive, Suite 200 Sacramento, CA 95833 December 2019 © 2019, Pacific Gas and Electric Company Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan POE HYDROELECTRIC PROJECT FERC PROJECT NO. 2107 POE RIPARIAN MONITORING PLAN TABLE OF CONTENTS 1.0Introduction ....................................................................................................................... 1 2.0Goal and Objectives .......................................................................................................... 4 3.0Study Area ......................................................................................................................... 4 4.0Methods .............................................................................................................................. 6 4.1Selection of Monitoring Sites ................................................................................. 6 4.1.1Selection Approach ..................................................................................... 6 4.1.2Proposed Monitoring Sites .......................................................................... 7 4.2Monitoring Methods ............................................................................................. 11 4.2.1Vegetation Surveys at Selected Monitoring Sites ..................................... 11 4.2.2Hydrology ................................................................................................. 15 4.2.3Relationship to Nearby Riparian Monitoring Studies ............................... 16 4.3Analysis Methods.................................................................................................. 16 4.3.1Vegetation Surveys at Selected Monitoring Sites ..................................... 16 4.3.2Hydrology ................................................................................................. 17 4.3.3Coordination with Other Monitoring Studies ........................................... 17 4.4Monitoring Schedule ............................................................................................. 17 5.0Deliverables and Reporting Schedule ........................................................................... 18 5.1Deliverables .......................................................................................................... 18 5.2Reporting Schedule ............................................................................................... 18 5.3Plan Revisions ....................................................................................................... 19 6.0References ........................................................................................................................ 20 December 2019 Page i Table of Contents Poe Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 2107 ©2019, Pacific Gas and Electric Company Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan LIST OF ATTACHMENTS Attachment A. FERC Article 401 Requirements Attachment B. FERC Appendix A Î Water Quality Certification Condition 11 Attachment C. Representative Photographs of the Poe Bypass Reach Attachment D. Monitoring Site Section Matrix Attachment E. Riparian Monitoring Datasheets Attachment F. United States Forest Service and State Water Resources Control Board Consultation LIST OF FIGURES Figure 3-1. Map of the Poe Bypass Reach. ......................................................................... 5 Figure 4-1.Approximate locations of proposed riparian monitoring sites. ....................... 10 LIST OF TABLES Table 4-1. Criteria used to select Poe Bypass Reach riparian monitoring sites. ................ 7 Table 4-2.Poe Bypass Reach riparian monitoring sites. .................................................... 9 Table 5-1.Riparian monitoring and reporting schedule. .................................................. 19 December 2019 Page ii Table of Contents Poe Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 2107 ©2019, Pacific Gas and Electric Company Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan LIST OF ACRONYMS Agencies United States Forest Service staff and SWRCB staff BMI benthic macroinvertebrates CDEC California Data Exchange Center cfs cubic foot/feet per second DBH diameter at breast height DWR California Department of Water Resources FERC Federal Energy Regulatory Commission FYLF foothill yellow-legged frog GPS Global Positioning System MFFR Middle Fork Feather River NFFR North Fork Feather River PBR Poe Bypass Reach PG&E or Licensee Pacific Gas and Electric Company Project Poe Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 2107 RM river mile SWRCB State Water Resources Control Board WQC Water Quality Certification December 2019 Page iii Table of Contents Poe Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 2107 ©2019, Pacific Gas and Electric Company Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan 1.0Introduction On December 17, 2018, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) issued a new license for Pacific Gas and Electric CompanyÓs (PG&E or Licensee) Poe Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 2107 (Project). The new license incorporates State of California State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) 401 Water Quality Certification (WQC) Conditions into the license articles in Appendix A of the new license (FERC 2018). The new license contains requirements to monitor riparian vegetation potentially affected by changes in operations, including recreational flows, slower down ramping rates, higher minimum instream flows, and pulse flows. Under the new license, up to 6,000 acre-feet of flow will be provided in Wet and Above Normal water years for recreational boating purposes when biological monitoring indicates the flows will not impact foothill yellow-legged frogs (FYLF). The new license requires slower down ramping rates from all Poe Dam flows under PG&EÓs control and below 3,000 cubic feet per second (cfs) to protect FYLF and other biological resources. Pulse flows to flush fine grain sediment will be implemented if sediment monitoring indicates an accumulation of sediments within the reach. The results of the riparian vegetation monitoring will be used in conjunction with the results of other biological monitoring studies, including fish, benthic macroinvertebrates, and FYLFs, to evaluate the potential responses of biological resources to the changes in operations under the new license. The patterns of riparian vegetation establishment and distribution along a river are created by the interaction of physical processes (e.g., flows of varying magnitudes, timing of flows, spring flow recession rates, inter and intra-annual flow variability, depth to groundwater during the growing season, and sediment deposition) and the different life history characteristics of the dominant species. The dominant woody riparian species present along the North Fork Feather River (NFFR) have many life history adaptations that promote their success under dynamic and episodic, yet seasonally predictable, hydrologic conditions. December 2019 Page 1 Poe Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 2107 ©2019, Pacific Gas and Electric Company Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan Flow attributes that are important for maintaining the distribution, and structural and compositional complexity of riparian communities include: (1) inter-annual variability; (2) hydrograph shape; (3) frequency of high-magnitude scouring or Ðre-settingÑ flows (flows that generally occur every 10 to 25 years); and (4) frequency, magnitude, timing, and recession rates of spring flows (i.e., recruitment flows; flows that generally occur every 1.5 to 5 years). Variability in flows within and between years creates a dynamic physical environment to which riparian vegetation responds. Flow attributes during ecologically sensitive time periods for riparian species (i.e., seed release, initial establishment, growing season) are particularly important for maintaining riparian vegetation. For successful recruitment to occur, flows of suitable recession rates must coincide with the release of seeds, to provide sufficient moisture to the seedlings and sprouts. This hydrology may occur in the same year as a re-setting flow or may occur several years later. Willows and cottonwoods, species present along the Project Bypass Reach, release seeds in the spring, timed with elevated flows from snowmelt. These seeds are only viable for a short period of time (weeks), requiring suitable moisture and soil conditions to be present at the time of seed release. For seedlings to survive, flow recession rates must be slow, and groundwater must be available through the dry summer. Riparian vegetation often establishes in elevation zones where water is available during the drier months and the plants are not too close the channel and susceptible to damage by high flows. The instream flows required by the new license are expected to enhance flow conditions that support riparian communities. This document, Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan (Plan), presents the plan to comply with the riparian monitoring required by SWRCB WQC Condition No. 11, which was incorporated into FERC License Article 401. The relevant FERC Article 401 requirements applicable to this Plan are provided in Attachment A. Similarly, SWRCB Condition 11 is included in Attachment B. The Plan was developed in consultation with the United States Forest Service Plumas National Forest and the SWRCB staff (Agencies). The response to comments table that addresses the United States Forest Service and SWRCB comments on the draft plan are provided in Attachment F. The Poe Project is located in the North Fork Feather River Basin, which contains extensive forested lands and is sparsely populated. Waters of the Poe Project include the Poe Reservoir, a 7.62-mile- December 2019 Page 2 Poe Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 2107 ©2019, Pacific Gas and Electric Company Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan long bypassed reach (ÐPoe Bypass ReachÑ), and the Big Bend Reservoir, which serves as the afterbay for the Project. The Poe Powerhouse and Big Bend Reservoir are located just upstream of Lake Oroville, the primary storage reservoir for the California Department of Water ResourcesÓ (DWR) Feather River Project (FERC Project No. 2100). December 2019 Page 3 Poe Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 2107 ©2019, Pacific Gas and Electric Company Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan 2.0Goal and Objectives The goal of riparian monitoring is to document the condition of the riparian resources in the Poe Bypass Reach under the new license-required instream flows (as of the 2018 FERC license issuance) and ramping rates. Specific objectives are as follows: 1) Determine the existing condition of riparian vegetation in the Project area. 2) Determine if the new flow regime results in a change in riparian vegetation distribution and position along and adjacent to the active channel. 3)Determine if the new flow regime results in a change in the species composition of riparian vegetation in selected sites. 4) Determine if the new flow regime results in a change in riparian vegetation age class structure, including regeneration, in selected sites. 5) Determine if the new flow regime results in a change in riparian density in selected sites. 6) Determine if the new flow regime results in a change in riparian health in selected reaches over the term of the new license. 3.0 Study Area The study area for the riparian monitoring includes the 7.62-river mile (RM) Poe Bypass Reach on the NFFR from Poe Dam downstream to Poe Powerhouse. The Poe Bypass Reach is shown in red on Figure 3-1. December 2019 Page 4 Poe Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 2107 ©2019, Pacific Gas and Electric Company Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan Figure 3-1. Map of the Poe Bypass Reach. December 2019 Page 5 Poe Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 2107 ©2019, Pacific Gas and Electric Company Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan 4.0Methods The following describes the approach for monitoring riparian vegetation in the Poe Bypass Reach, including: selection of proposed long-term monitoring sites, monitoring methods, analysis methods, and monitoring schedule. 4.1 Selection of Monitoring Sites 4.1.1Selection Approach Riparian corridor vegetation community distribution patterns and age structure diversity within a watershed reflect interactions between watershed geology, channel morphology, fluvial geomorphic processes, and life history adaptations of the plant species. To identify and select riparian long-term monitoring sites that are representative of the Poe Bypass Reach and have conditions suitable to support riparian vegetation, the reach was characterized based on several geomorphic and riparian criteria. In addition to these characteristics, the location of past and current studies, such as instream flows, FYLF, benthic macroinvertebrates (BMI), and fish population, within the Poe Bypass Reach were considered during the selection of the riparian 1 monitoring reaches. Locations of potential vegetation encroachment, lower-gradient areas, and accessibility were also considered. These criteria are listed in Table 4-1. In addition to the monitoring sites in the Poe Bypass Reach, a reference site on an unimpaired river was selected for comparison. Reference site locations that were considered included sites used for other past and current studies and availability of flow data. 1 The riparian study conducted in support of the relicensing of the Poe Project involved mapping riparian vegetation along the Poe Bypass Reach. Studies were not conducted at specific study sites. December 2019 Page 6 Poe Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 2107 ©2019, Pacific Gas and Electric Company Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan Table 4-1. Criteria used to select Poe Bypass Reach riparian monitoring sites. Characteristics Selection Criteria Data Source Channel geomorphic Channel characteristics, such as FERC License Application characteristics valley type, channel form, (PG&E 2003); topographic maps; geomorphic landforms, and aerial imagery; site reconnaissance. Confinement substrate, are suitable to support Gradient riparian vegetation along a river. Presence of depositional Lower-gradient, less confined landforms reaches with finer substrate and Substrate Size deposition landforms provide suitable conditions to support riparian vegetation. Woody riparian corridor Landscape-level riparian FERC License Application characteristics distribution, composition, and age (PG&E 2003); aerial imagery; structure are representative of those riparian vegetation site Distribution within the bypass reach, and reconnaissance. Composition characteristic of the region and Age structure channel morphology. Co-located or nearby aquatic Located near other aquatic or FERC License Application Report study sites instream flow study sites to provide (PG&E 2003); PG&EÓs technical a more comprehensive assessment study plans (PG&E 2004). of the reach. Other floodplain activities Minimal observations of ongoing or FERC License Application Report historic activities such as mining, (PG&E 2003); PG&EÓs technical high recreation use (e.g., camping, study plans (PG&E 2001; 2004); hiking) or grazing along the aerial imagery, riparian vegetation channel that may alter riparian site reconnaissance. condition. Accessibility Site is safely accessible by Topographic maps; site helicopter or hiking trail. reconnaissance. 4.1.2Proposed Monitoring Sites The Poe Bypass Reach is predominately comprised of a steep, confined bedrock-controlled channel. Much of the channel is developed on resistant bedrock mantled with a discontinuous cover of large boulder and cobble deposits. The steep boulder-bedrock reaches that store little sediment are interspersed with lower-gradient cascade, boulder step-pool, and boulder-cobble plane-bed reaches. The steep side slopes, narrow valley bottom, and prevalence of bedrock and boulder along long sections of the Poe Bypass Reach limit conditions suitable for riparian vegetation to establish. Two small tributaries, Mill Creek and Flea Valley Creek, enter the NFFR December 2019 Page 7 Poe Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 2107 ©2019, Pacific Gas and Electric Company Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan from opposite sides of the river near the upstream end of the reach. The mouths of these creeks are about 0.5 mile and 0.9 mile, respectively, downstream of Poe Dam. The upper 1.01 RM (5,350 feet) of the Poe Bypass Reach, from Poe Dam downstream to immediately downstream from the mouth of Flea Valley Creek is a wider, lower-gradient channel. The river then flows through a narrower, steeper canyon section dominated by bedrock canyon walls and large boulders, with limited accessibility (approximately 2.53 miles RM \[13,360 feet\]). The lower section of river (approximately 4.08 RM \[21,560 feet\]), from BardeeÓs Bar to Poe Powerhouse, opens to a wider, lower-gradient channel with long pools, runs, and pocket-water habitats separated by short sections of riffles and/or cascades. The comparatively lower-gradient, wider valley bottom sections with alluvial depositional features and finer substrate (e.g., cobbles and gravels) provide conditions suitable to support riparian colonization, establishment, and development along the Poe Bypass Reach. The vegetation habitat types along the NFFR are mainly riparian, with mixed pine-oak forest dominating the surrounding upland areas. The adjacent railroad grade serves as a constraint to the riparian corridor extent on the right bank on the upper section of the Poe Bypass Reach and crossing to the left bank for the remainder of the Project reach at the Highway 70 bridge. Representative photographs of the Poe Bypass Reach are provided in Attachment C. The selection criteria are summarized for the Poe Bypass Reach in Attachment D. Based on the evaluation of the selection criteria, three riparian monitoring sites in the Poe Bypass Reach are proposed to document changes in riparian resources in response to the new flow requirements required by the license and be representative of the Poe Bypass Reach (Table 4-2, Figure 4-1). The monitoring sites were chosen to represent areas where sensitivity to altered flow and probability of change in riparian vegetation were judged to be the greatest. These sites are referred to by the prefix ÐPBRÑ followed by a number, e.g., PBR-1. Riparian monitoring sites were selected that encompassed at least one transect for which stage-discharge relationships were previously developed so that riparian vegetation patterns can be evaluated in relation to the range of flow stages, recession rates, and inundation at the monitoring sites. Monitoring sites were not December 2019 Page 8 Poe Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 2107 ©2019, Pacific Gas and Electric Company Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan selected within the bedrock confined sections or sections with boulder banks due to lack of naturally occurring riparian vegetation. In addition to the three monitoring sites within the Poe Bypass Reach, one reference site is proposed on the Middle Fork Feather River (MFFR), in an unregulated reach. This site is referred to as REF-1 (Table 4-2; Figure 4-1). This site is near reference sites for other aquatic studies, and flow and stage data are available from California Data Exchange Center (CDEC) gage MER (Middle Fork Feather River at Merrimac). Table 4-2. Poe Bypass Reach riparian monitoring sites. a Approximate Upstream Location (Lat/Long) Reach ID Site Description Reach Type Latitude Longitude PBR-1 Above Mill Creek Confluence Regulated 39.80828 -121.435769 PBR-2 Above Flea Valley Creek Confluence Regulated 39.80371 -121.441841 PBR-3 Poe Beach Regulated 39.733901 -121.469034 REF-1 Below Milsap Bar Bridge; MFFR Unregulated 39.705277 -121.26986 a Actual upstream and downstream extent will be identified and recorded during first monitoring event for all subsequent monitoring. Monitoring site reach lengths will be at least twenty times the channel width. December 2019 Page 9 Poe Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 2107 ©2019, Pacific Gas and Electric Company , FERC Project No. 2107 and Electric Company ©2019, Pacific Gas oposed riparian monitoring sites. Poe Hydroelectric Project Page 10 Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan Figure 4-1. Approximate locations of pr December 2019 Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan 4.2Monitoring Methods Site-scale field surveys with repeat photo documentation will be conducted at the selected long- 2 term monitoring sites to monitor riparian vegetation within the Poe Bypass Reach. The surveys will provide an assessment of the riparian composition and age structure in relation to the flow and geomorphic conditions. Riparian vegetation at the monitoring sites will be surveyed with transects oriented across the riparian corridor and stream bank surveys. Data will be collected to characterize the vegetation community distribution, composition, age structure and structural diversity, and will include: percent cover of dominant plant species, tree and shrub height and canopy structure, relative density of woody riparian and upland vegetation, woody riparian and upland vegetation age and size classes present, evidence of unusual mortality, 3 width of the riparian corridor, riparian health, and observations of other stressors potentially impacting riparian resources. Incidental wildlife observations and presence of diagnostic sign (such as tracks, scat, feathers, etc.) data will be recorded. Flow data will be evaluated and related to vegetation distribution and growth patterns. The methods for the riparian vegetation survey and photo documentation at the selected monitoring sites are described below. 4.2.1Vegetation Surveys at Selected Monitoring Sites 4.2.1.1 Vegetation Transect Composition and Structure Quantitative data will be collected along transects established perpendicular to the channel. Data will be collected along transects so that vegetation patterns can be related to elevations, flow stage and inundation, seasonality, and flow connectivity. 2 Monitoring site reach lengths will be at least twenty times the channel width. 3 Riparian health will be characterized based on observations of the vegetation itself, such as premature leaf drop, insect infestation, trampling from animals or people, and fire. The ratio of woody riparian seedlings/young to mature individuals within the sampling area will also be assessed. December 2019 Page 11 Poe Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 2107 ©2019, Pacific Gas and Electric Company Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan Three long-term monitoring transects will be established within each monitoring site. The transects will be established at representative locations approximately equidistant within the monitoring site. The length of the transect will extend to approximately five feet beyond the start of upland vegetation at the upland hillslope base, and include any bars present, except in cases where it may be unsafe to work within the channel. This will ensure that herbaceous and woody riparian vegetation currently established along the low flow channel, as well as new riparian vegetation that may establish farther from the channel, are included in the survey. Paired transects will be surveyed on either side of the channel. The ends of the transects will be marked with headpins, such as capped rebar or other semi-permanent marker, and located with Global Positioning System (GPS). The topography of the transects across the floodplain and channel, if conditions are safe, will be surveyed. Topographic data will be collected under low flow conditions during each monitoring period to create an elevation profile. Along the surveyed transect, the surveyors will note the 4 location of the water surface elevation and the greenline location. If possible, these transects will be tied to any temporary benchmarks that are established as part of other monitoring surveys. Vegetation data will be collected along the transects using the line-intercept method and will be used to characterize the species distributions within the riparian corridor along the elevation profile (Winward 2000; Coles-Ritchie et al. 2004). Composition data (dominant groundcover, shrub, and tree species present) will be obtained by walking along a transect tape that extends across the riparian corridor and measuring and recording the length of cover of each dominant or co-dominant 5 species that intersects the tape along the transect. Intersection of the overhead canopy with the transect tape will be determined using a rod, approximately three meters in length, held up vertically perpendicular from the tape into the canopy. Sub-dominant species found with the dominant species also will be recorded. When a change in the dominant species is observed, a new data entry will be recorded. In addition, the length of areas of bare ground, leaf litter, large 4 The greenline is defined as: ÐThe first perennial vegetation that forms a lineal grouping of community types on or near the waterÓs edge. Most often it occurs at or slightly below the bankfull stageÑ (Winward 2000). 5 All cover measurements will be made with a densitometer or densiometer; using cover classes consistent with Mayer and Laudenslayer (1988). December 2019 Page 12 Poe Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 2107 ©2019, Pacific Gas and Electric Company Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan woody debris, and different substrate size classes will be recorded along each transect. If the lengths of these attributes are different from the vegetation coverage lengths, these attributes will be recorded as separate entries on the datasheet. The lengths of the vegetation and other corridor attributes will then be related to the width of the entire riparian corridor to determine the proportion of each within the corridor (Winward 2000). A line-intercept sample datasheet is provided in Attachment E. The relative densities of the general age classes of woody riparian and upland vegetation within the riparian monitoring sites will be characterized by tallying the number of woody plant individuals (riparian and upland, if present) by species and size class along a 2-meter wide belt along the line-intercept transect. The age classes for tree species defined by the diameter at breast height (DBH) size categories will be classified as follows: (1) sprouts with diameters less than 1 inch; (2) saplings with DBH between 1 and 3 inches, (3) mature trees with DBH between 3 and 10 inches, and (4) old trees with DBH greater than 10 inches. The number of shrubs in each of four size categories will be recorded: (1) seedlings with one stem; (2) young shrubs with less than 10 stems per individual; (3) mature shrubs with between 10 and 60 stems per individual; and (4) old shrubs with greater than 60 stems per individual. A sample datasheet is provided in Attachment E. A full species list will be created for each monitoring site and compiled for a master list of the riparian vegetation community in the Poe Bypass Reach. All species will be identified by scientific and common names, wetland indicator status, native or non-native status, and other pertinent 6 classifications (such as invasive weed status or sensitive species). General botanical nomenclature will follow Baldwin et al. (2012) or most recent accepted standard. Other pertinent information will be recorded as observed at the monitoring site, including: substrate, channel encroachment, large woody debris within the riparian corridor, bank instability, and evidence of recreational and other land use activities (e.g. fishing trails, vegetation trampling, fire, or clipping, horses or cattle present). Encroachment of riparian vegetation into the channel 6 The target invasive weeds list will be included in the Poe Noxious Weed Management Plan. December 2019 Page 13 Poe Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 2107 ©2019, Pacific Gas and Electric Company Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan will monitored along the surveyed transects by comparing the location of mature vegetation documented as part of the line-intercept surveys along the channel margins over time and within the reference site. In addition, excessive accumulations of sediments within stream margin and vegetation and/or berm development will be noted. Evidence of unusual stress or mortality, and/or incidental wildlife observations will also be noted. 4.2.1.2 Riparian Recruitment Riparian recruitment will be characterized within each monitoring site. Potential locations for riparian vegetation recruitment will be mapped and riparian recruitment and physical characteristics of each potential location will be characterized. Potential areas for recruitment are defined as relatively open areas with open alluvial substrate at a distance from and elevation above the active channel where riparian vegetation could potentially establish. Within each potential recruitment area, data on the physical characteristics of the area will be collected, including: substrate, physiographic setting, and distance from and elevation above the base flow channel. The number of seedlings and saplings of riparian species will be tallied and recorded within each potential recruitment area. The density and cover of potentially competing vegetation will also be documented.A sample datasheet is provided in Attachment E. 4.2.1.3 Photo Documentation Photo documentation will provide a visual record of the conditions of the riparian communities and land use over time (Elzinga et al. 1998; Bureau of Land Management 1999, Burton et. al. 2007). The photographs will be used to document changes in herbaceous and woody species cover along the stream banks, structure of the community (e.g. multi-layered canopy, single stratum shrub, tree-shrub, shrub-herbaceous, etc.), position of the vegetation along the channel, other activities (e.g. ungulate grazing, beaver presence, recreation) within the monitoring sites. Riparian conditions within the monitoring sites will be documented with permanent photo point locations and/or drone imagery. Permanent photo point locations will be selected at multiple locations within each riparian monitoring site to document the riparian conditions along the stream banks and within the riparian corridor. The photo points will be taken from the same vantage December 2019 Page 14 Poe Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 2107 ©2019, Pacific Gas and Electric Company Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan points each year and will include at a minimum: (1) photograph facing upstream from approximately mid-channel; (2) photograph facing downstream from approximately mid-channel; (3) photograph toward the left bank from the right bank; and (4) photograph facing the right bank from the left bank at each transect location. At least four photo point locations within each monitoring site will be selected that best represent the site and will capture changes in riparian vegetation in response to flow changes. All other photographs will be archived. Additional photo points also will be established at the following locations: (1) from Poe Dam to assess the riparian vegetation condition immediately downstream of the dam; (2) from the Highway 70 bridge (looking upstream and downstream) to provide an aerial assessment of the bedrock section of the Poe Bypass Reach; and (3) from the Poe Powerhouse access road bridge (upstream and downstream) to provide an overview of the gravel bars and riparian condition adjacent to the powerhouse. Each photo point location will be recorded with a GPS. Each photo point location will be documented with a marker in the field, proximity to a nearby unique feature will be noted, or a unique feature will be included within the photograph to facilitate repeatability during subsequent monitoring. Photographs from previous years will be taken into the field each year to assist in orienting the camera. The photographs will be taken of the same location at approximately the same time of year (season), and at approximately the same time of day (when feasible) during each monitoring study. The photographs will be stored by year electronically in a photo log with pertinent information such as date, time, number, environmental information (such as recent high flows, etc.) A photo point datasheet is provided in Attachment E. 4.2.2 Hydrology Following each monitoring period, recent flows will be summarized. Average daily stream flow data from PG&EÓs flow gage NF-23 located on the NFFR and CDECÓs flow gage MER located on the MFFR for at least a twenty-year period of record will be summarized for each monitoring period. This longer period of record provides context for the condition of the riparian vegetation December 2019 Page 15 Poe Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 2107 ©2019, Pacific Gas and Electric Company Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan that is influenced by the recent flow regime, as well as the pattern of flows over the past several decades, including high magnitude flows that Ðre-setÑ or scour vegetation. 4.2.3 Relationship to Nearby Riparian Monitoring Studies The riparian vegetation monitoring methods are consistent, and results will be comparable with the methods specified in the Riparian Vegetation Monitoring Plan for the Rock Creek-Cresta Project (FERC No. 1962) located upstream of the Poe Project. Specifically, both monitoring studies include line-intercept surveys along topographic transects established perpendicular to the channel to describe the vegetation in relation to changes in elevation and distance from the channel. Monitoring for both projects requires collecting age class distribution data for dominant riparian species to describe the age structure of the riparian community over time. The riparian recruitment monitoring described in Section 4.2.1.2 and the riparian recruitment monitoring for the RCC Project are similar, documenting the quality and quantity of potential areas suitable for riparian establishment and success of riparian recruitment within these areas over time. 4.3 Analysis Methods 4.3.1Vegetation Surveys at Selected Monitoring Sites Data collected at each monitoring site will be summarized to describe the vegetation characteristics across the riparian corridor and along the stream banks, including the relative percent cover by dominant species and strata; age structure; and densities (numbers of individuals by species per area surveyed for each monitoring site). The data will be evaluated to determine descriptive statistics for the measured parameters, including frequency distributions (i.e., histograms) of age classes present. The results of the line-intercept surveys will be graphically illustrated along the elevation profiles. Different flow stages that occurred during the time period since the last monitoring studies (e.g. pulse flows, spill flows, and minimum instream flows \[MIFs\]) will be graphically illustrated along the surveyed transects with the results of the vegetation composition from the line-intercept surveys. The ratio of woody riparian seedlings/young to mature individuals will be calculated as December 2019 Page 16 Poe Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 2107 ©2019, Pacific Gas and Electric Company Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan one measure of riparian health. Other observations of riparian health, such as premature leaf drop, insect infestation, trampling from animals or people, and disease will also be summarized. The riparian recruitment data will be compiled and summarized in tabular and graphical formats. Qualitative data, including encroachment observations and species lists, collected at each site will be compiled and summarized. The riparian data in the Poe Bypass Reach will be compared with the reference site, and with the previous monitoring periods to assess changes over time. 4.3.2 Hydrology The daily flow data from NF23 and MER gages will be graphed to illustrate the frequency and magnitude of high flows, prolonged dry periods, and the timing and magnitude of snow melt flows. The daily flow data will be converted to stage to evaluate the range of stages, recession rates, and inundation at the monitoring sites. The results of the riparian vegetation monitoring will be related to the recent flow regime, including the inter-annual variability; hydrograph shape; occurrence of high-magnitude scouring or Ðre-settingÑ flows (flows that generally occur every 10 to 25 years); and frequency, magnitude, timing, and recession rates of spring flows (i.e., recruitment flows; flows that generally occur every 1.5 to 5 years); and drought. 4.3.3 Coordination with Other Monitoring Studies Pertinent data collected as part of the Riparian Monitoring Plan surveys, including invasive weeds, special-status plants, sediment erosion/deposition, large woody debris, and vegetation cover and structure, will be provided to other license required monitoring studies (i.e. fish, FYLF, sediment, and temperature studies), as appropriate. The data will be provided prior to the next reporting period for that study to enable incorporation into the respective reports. 4.4 Monitoring Schedule Riparian monitoring includes baseline data collection in the first fall following approval of this Plan and monitoring to assess potential changes in riparian vegetation in response to the flows and evaluate trends over time (refer to Table 5-1). Riparian vegetation will be monitored in license year 10, 20, 30, and every 10 years thereafter, for the term of the license and any extensions. If a December 2019 Page 17 Poe Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 2107 ©2019, Pacific Gas and Electric Company Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan 7 high flow occurs that meets or exceeds 59,800 cfs, based on average daily flow measured at PG&EÓs flow gage NF-23, occurs during the first five years of the ten year period between monitoring, PG&E will conduct an additional riparian monitoring the fall after the event occurs to document the potential effects of the flow event on the channel and riparian community within each monitoring site. If no high flow event occurs during the first five years of a ten-year period between monitoring, PG&E will conduct riparian monitoring the fall of the fifth year. To the extent feasible, riparian vegetation monitoring surveys will be conducted in the late September/early October when flows will be reduced to about 55 cfs in accordance with the Fish and BMI Monitoring Plan. 5.0 Deliverables and Reporting Schedule 5.1 Deliverables Riparian Monitoring Reports will be prepared each year that monitoring is conducted. Each yearÓs report will include the results from the current year, and a comparison with the previous yearsÓ results under the new license. The report will include a summary of the survey methods and analysis, including maps, tables, figures, and other analysis products, as described above. 5.2 Reporting Schedule PG&E will submit a draft of the Poe Riparian Monitoring Report to the SWRCB and Forest Service following the conclusion of each monitoring year (Table 5-1). PG&E will submit the draft report on or before March 15 of the subsequent year. PG&E will allow the SWRCB and Forest Service at least 30 days to review and comment on the draft report and will set up a consultation meeting, if warranted. The final monitoring report will be filed with SWRCB with a copy to Forest Service by May 31 the year following a monitoring year. PG&E will include in the final report any comments and 7 A flow of this magnitude has been documented to result in substantial re-working of the channel and scouring of riparian vegetation. December 2019 Page 18 Poe Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 2107 ©2019, Pacific Gas and Electric Company Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan recommendations made by the agencies on the draft report. If PG&E does not adopt a recommendation, the filing shall include PG&EÓs reasons based on Project-specific information. Table 5-1. Riparian monitoring and reporting schedule. Activity Year Monitoring Baseline site-scale field surveys at monitoring sites First fall following approval of Plan Site-scale field surveys at monitoring sites License years 10, 20, and 30, and every 10 years thereafter, for the term of the license and any extensions, and after a high magnitude flow a (59,800 cfs) that occurs within the first 5 years of the ten year period between monitoring. If no high flow event occurs during the first five years of a ten-year period between monitoring, PG&E will conduct riparian monitoring the fall of the fifth year. Reporting PG&E will submit draft report to the SWRCB and On or before March 15 the year following field Forest Service for review monitoring SWRCB and Forest Service review period 30 days after receiving draft report PG&E will submit final report to the SWRCB and On or before May 31 the year following field Forest Service monitoring a Average daily flow, measured at the PG&E NF-23 gage. 5.3 Plan Revisions The Licensee, in consultation with the Forest Service and SWRCB, will review, update, and revise the Plan, if necessary, during the report review period every ten (10) years. Changes to be considered include methodologies and monitoring frequencies based on effects to the riparian habitat from operations. After consultation and agreement with the Forest Service and SWRCB, the Licensee will work with the Forest Service and SWRCB to file the updated Plan with FERC. The Licensee will include all relevant documentation of coordination and consultation with the updated Plan filed with FERC. If the Licensee does not adopt a particular recommendation by USFWS or CDFW, the filing will include the reasons for not doing so. The Licensee will implement the revised Plan once approved by FERC. December 2019 Page 19 Poe Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 2107 ©2019, Pacific Gas and Electric Company Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan 6.0References Baldwin, B.G., D.H. Goldman, D.J. Keil, R. Patterson, T.J. Rosatti, and D.H. Wilken, Editors. 2012. The Jepson Manual: vascular plants of California, second edition. University of California Press, Berkeley, California. Bureau of Land Management (BLM). 1999. Sampling vegetation attributes interagency technical reference. Denver, Colorado. Burton, T.A., E.R. Cowley, and S.J. Smith. 2007. Monitoring streambanks and riparian vegetation Î multiple indicators. Idaho Technical Bulletin No. 2007-01. April 2007. United States Department of Interior, Bureau of Land Management, 50 pp. Coles-Ritchie, M.C., R.C. Henderson, E.K. Archer, C. Kennedy, and J.L. Kershner. 2004. Repeatability of riparian vegetation sampling methods: how useful are these techniques for broad-scale, long-term monitoring? USDA Forest Service Gen. Tech. Rep. RMRS-GTR-138. Elzinga, C.L., D.W. Salzer, and J.W. Willoughby. 1998. Measuring and monitoring plant populations. Bureau of Land Management, BLM Technical Reference 1730-1. Denver, Colorado. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). 2018. Order Issuing New License. Project Nos. 2107-016. Prepared by Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Office of Energy Projects, Division of Hydropower Licensing. Washington, DC. December 17. Mayer, K.E., and W.F. Laudenslayer. 1988. A Guide to Wildlife Habitats of California. State of California, Resources Agency, Department of Fish and Game. Sacramento, CA. 166 pp. Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E). 2001. North Fork Feather River Instream Flow Study Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107. April. ______. 2003. Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC No. 2107 Application for New License. Final: December ______. 2004. Results of 2000-2002 Surveys for Foothill Yellow-Legged Frog (Rana boylii) on the North Fork Feather River and Selected Tributaries with the Poe Project. December. Powell, D.C. 2006. Recording the changes: field guide to establishing and maintaining permanent camera point systems. United States Department of Agriculture Î Forest Service. Pacific Northwest Region. FS-14-SO-09-06. August. 21 pp. Sawyer, J., T. Keeler-Wolf, and J. Evens. 2009. A Manual of California Vegetation (second edition). California Native Plant Society Press. Sacramento, California December 2019 Page 20 Poe Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 2107 ©2019, Pacific Gas and Electric Company Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan State of California State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB). 2017. In the Matter of Water Quality Certification for the Pacific Gas and Electric Company Poe Hydroelectric Project, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Project No. 2107. December 28. United States Department of Agriculture - Forest Service (Forest Service). 2018. Forest Service revised final license terms and conditions necessary for the protection and utilization of the Plumas National Forest in condition with the application for license Poe Hydroelectric Project, FERC No. 2107, Pacific Gas and Electric Company. Prepared by the United States Department of Agriculture, Forest Service. Pacific South West Region. July 6. Winward, A.H. 2000. Monitoring the vegetation resources in riparian areas. United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station RMRS-GTR-47. December 2019 Page 21 Poe Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 2107 ©2019, Pacific Gas and Electric Company Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan ATTACHMENT A FERC Article 401 Requirements December 2019 Page A-1 Poe Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 2107 ©2019, Pacific Gas and Electric Company Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan FERC Article 401 Î Commission Approval, Reporting, Notification, and Filing of Amendments (FERC 2018) (a) Requirement to File Plans for Commission Approval The State Water Resources Control BoardÓs (Water Board) section 401 water quality certification (WQC) (Appendix A) and the U. S. Department of Agriculture Î Forest ServiceÓs (Forest Service) section 4(e) conditions (Appendix B) require the Licensee to prepare plans in consultation with other entities for approval by the Water Board or Forest Service or for submittal to the Commission, and implement specific measures without prior Commission approval. The following plans must also be submitted to the Commission for approval by the deadlines specified below: Water Board WQC Forest Service 4(e) Condition No. Condition No. Plan Name Commission Due Date Poe Bypass Reach Within 1 year from 11 -- Riparian Monitoring Plan license issuance *excerpt from FERC 2018 Article 401 With each plan filed with the Commission, the Licensee must include documentation that it developed the plan in consultation with the above-listed agencies and provide copies of any comments received, as well as its response to each comment. The Commission reserves the right to make changes to any plan filed. Upon Commission approval, the plan becomes a requirement of the license, and the Licensee must implement the plan, including any changes required by the Commission. Any changes in the above schedule or plans require approval by the Commission before implementing the proposed change. December 2019 Page A-2 Attachment A Poe Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 2107 ©2019, Pacific Gas and Electric Company Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan ATTACHMENT B FERC Appendix A Î Water Quality Certification Condition 11 December 2019 Page B-1 Attachment B Poe Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 2107 ©2019, Pacific Gas and Electric Company Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan 8 SWRCB 401 Water Quality Certification Condition No. 11 Î Poe Bypass Reach Riparian Monitoring Within one year of license issuance, the Licensee shall prepare, in consultation with State Water Board staff and Forest Service, a Riparian Monitoring Plan for the Poe bypass reach. The Licensee shall file the Riparian Monitoring Plan with the Deputy Director for review and approval. The Deputy Director may require modifications as part of any approval. The Licensee shall file the Deputy DirectorÓs approval, and any required modifications, with FERC. The Licensee shall conduct initial baselinemonitoring in the year following approval of the Riparian Monitoring Plan. Subsequent surveys shall be conducted in Years 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, and every 5 years thereafter, for the term of the license and any extensions, following the implementation of the new instream flow requirements (unless other intervals are deemed necessary by the Deputy Director to evaluate the effects of flow changes on riparian vegetation). 8 SWRCB (2017) December 2019 Page B-2 Attachment B Poe Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 2107 ©2019, Pacific Gas and Electric Company Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan ATTACHMENT C Representative Photographs of the Poe Bypass Reach December 2019 Page C-1 Attachment C Poe Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 2107 ©2019, Pacific Gas and Electric Company Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan Photographs of the Poe Bypass Reach 6/18/2019 Figure C-1. From Highway 70 Bridge, looking upstream from river left. 6/18/2019 Figure C-2. From Poe Powerhouse Access Bridge, looking upstream from channel center. December 2019 Page C-2 Attachment C Poe Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 2107 ©2019, Pacific Gas and Electric Company Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan 6/18/2019 Figure C-3. Poe Powerhouse Access Bridge, looking downstream from channel center. 6/18/2019 Figure C-4. BardeeÓs Bar, looking downstream from river right. December 2019 Page C-3 Attachment C Poe Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 2107 ©2019, Pacific Gas and Electric Company Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan 6/18/2019 Figure C-5. BardeeÓs Bar, looking upstream from river right. 6/18/2019 Figure C-6. From BardeeÓs Bar Road, below BardeeÓs Bar, looking upstream from river right. December 2019 Page C-4 Attachment C Poe Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 2107 ©2019, Pacific Gas and Electric Company Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan 6/18/2019 Figure C-7. From BardeeÓs Bar Road, looking upstream at BardeeÓs Bar from river right. December 2019 Page C-5 Attachment C Poe Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 2107 ©2019, Pacific Gas and Electric Company Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan 6/18/2019 Figure C-8. From BardeeÓs Bar Road, below BardeeÓs Bar, looking downstream from river right. December 2019 Page C-6 Attachment C Poe Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 2107 ©2019, Pacific Gas and Electric Company Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan Representative Photographs of PBR-1: Above Mill Creek Confluence 6/18/2019 Figure C-9. PBR-1 from river left, looking downstream. 6/18/2019 Figure C-10. PBR-1 from river left, looking upstream. December 2019 Page C-7 Attachment C Poe Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 2107 ©2019, Pacific Gas and Electric Company Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan Representative Photographs of PBR-2: Above Flea Valley Creek Confluence 6/18/2019 Figure C-11. PBR-2 from river left, looking downstream. 6/18/2019 Figure C-12. PBR-2 from river left, looking downstream. December 2019 Page C-8 Attachment C Poe Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 2107 ©2019, Pacific Gas and Electric Company Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan Representative Photographs of PBR-3: Poe Beach 6/18/2019 Figure C-13. PBR-3 from river right, looking upstream. 6/18/2019 Figure C-14. PBR-3 from river right, looking downstream. December 2019 Page C-9 Attachment C Poe Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 2107 ©2019, Pacific Gas and Electric Company Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan Representative Photographs of REF-1: Below Milsap Bar Bridge 10/2011 Figure C-15. REF-1 from channel center, looking downstream. 10/2011 Figure C-16. REF-1 from channel center, looking upstream. December 2019 Page C-10 Attachment C Poe Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 2107 ©2019, Pacific Gas and Electric Company Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan ATTACHMENT D Monitoring Site Section Matrix December 2019 Page D-1 Attachment D Poe Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 2107 ©2019, Pacific Gas and Electric Company Attachment D PBR-1 PBR-2 Recommended Study Site Name gravel substrate. gravel substrate. gravel substrate. gravel substrate. Minimal depositional features suitable to support riparian vegetation. Minimal nearby aquatic study sites. Adjacent to tailrace. Boulder, cobble, and Depositional bars and features suitable to support riparian vegetation. Landscape-scale riparian distribution, composition, and age structure is representative and characteristic of the region and channel morphology. Boulder, cobble, and Sandy depositional bar unlikely to support riparian vegetation. Evidence of high recreational use. Landscape-scale riparian distribution, composition, and age structure is representative and characteristic of the region and channel morphology on left bank. Minimal riparian vegetation on right bank. Confluence area may not be representative of reach. Boulder, cobble, and Depositional bars and features suitable to support riparian vegetation. Landscape-scale riparian distribution, composition, and age structure is representative and characteristic of the region and channel morphology. Boulder, cobble, and Minimal depositional feature. Landscape-scale riparian distribution, composition, and age structure is representative and characteristic of the region and channel morphology on left bank. Confluence area may not be representative of reach. N Y N Y N (Y/N) Rationale Reach Monitoring for Riparian Recommended s are highlighted in yellow). Site Notes Downstream of Poe Dam. Railroad is a confining feature on the right bank. Above Mill Creek Confluence. Railroad is a confining feature on the right bank. Mill Creek Confluence and Sandy Beach. Railroad is confining feature on the right bank. Sandy Beach is well used recreational area. Above Flea Valley Creek Confluence. Railroad is confining feature on right bank. Flea Valley Confluence. , FERC Project No. 2107 and Electric Company Notes Page D-2 Accessibility Access via slope adjacent to Highway 70 Access via slope adjacent to Highway 70 Access via slope adjacent to Highway 70 or from Sandy Beach. Upstream access from Sandy Beach on left bank. Downstream access from end of Pulga Road, near Flea Valley Creek Confluence, on right bank. Upstream access from end of Pulga Road, near Flea Valley Creek Confluence, on right bank. c ©2019, Pacific Gas Poe Hydroelectric Project Implementation Study or License Monitoring Sites Aquatic Licensing Potential fish monitoring site Potential fish monitoring site Potential BMI monitoring site Potential fish monitoring site Recreation relicensing study site Potential tributary fish access site Amphibian monitoring site IFIM relicensing study site; stage-discharge relationship available IFIM relicensing study site; stage-discharge relationship available Potential tributary fish access site (shown on Figure D-1) Co-located and Nearby ss Reach and reference riparian monitoring sites (proposed reache Woody Riparian Vegetation Tailrace section has minimal riparian vegetation even under low flow conditions. Continuous narrow young and medium-aged alder/willow-dominated corridor. Continuous narrow young and medium-aged alder/willow-dominated corridor predominately on left bank. Discontinuous riparian vegetation on right bank. Continuous narrow young and medium-aged alder/willow-dominated corridor. Continuous narrow young and medium-aged alder/willow-dominated corridor. a 0.5 Î 2% 0.5 Î 2% 0.5 Î 2% 0.5 Î 2% 0.5 Î 2% Channel Gradient (%) a Channel Characteristics Tailrace section, followed by short section of pool-riffle morphology. Meandering pool-riffle morphology with alternating cobble/gravel bars. Meandering pool-riffle morphology with alternating cobble/gravel bars. Mill Creek confluence on left bank, with large downstream gravel/sand depositional feature. Meandering pool-riffle morphology. Meandering pool-riffle morphology. Flea Valley Confluence on right bank. Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan from Poe (Distance Dam\[miles\]) Downstream Stream Segment 0 Î 0.20 0.20 Î 0.40 0.40 Î 0.65 0.65 Î 0.95 0.95 Î 1.01 Table D-1. Summary of selection criteria of potential Poe Bypa December 2019 Attachment D Recommended Study Site Name ith sparse riparian djustable reach, with djustable reach, with gravel substrate. Moderately steep channel with boulder and cobble substrate, non-aminimal vegetation. Large boulder dominant. Minimal depositional features suitable to support riparian vegetation. Difficult site access. Highly entrenched bedrock and boulder-dominant, non-adjustable reach, with sparse riparian vegetation. Minimal to no depositional features suitable to support riparian vegetation. No nearby aquatic study sites. Very difficult site access. Entrenched bedrock and boulder-dominant, non-adjustable reach, wvegetation. Large boulder dominant. Minimal depositional features suitable to support riparian vegetation. Moderately steep channel with boulder and cobble substrate, non-aminimal vegetation. Large boulder dominant. Minimal depositional features suitable to support riparian vegetation. Difficult site access. No nearby aquatic sites. Boulder, cobble, and Some depositional bars and features may be suitable to support riparian vegetation. Landscape-scale riparian distribution, composition, and age structure is representative and characteristic of the region and channel morphology. Difficult site access. N N N N (Y/N) Rationale Reach Monitoring for Riparian Recommended Site Notes Confluence to Highway 70 Bridge. Railroad is confining feature on right bank. Bridge and BardeeÓs Bar. BardeeÓs Bar N Below BardeeÓs Bar Above Swimmers Beach , FERC Project No. 2107 and Electric Company Notes Page D-3 Accessibility Difficult. Below Flea Valley Access from BardeeÓs Bar Road (dirt, in poor condition in summer 2019) to right bank. Very difficult. Difficult. c ©2019, Pacific Gas Poe Hydroelectric Project Implementation Study or License Monitoring Sites Aquatic Licensing Potential BMI monitoring site None Very difficult. Between Highway 70 Amphibian monitoring site Recreation study site Potential fish study site None Amphibian monitoring site (shown on Figure D-1) Co-located and Nearby Woody Riparian Vegetation narrow young and medium-aged alder/willow-dominated corridor predominately on left bank. Discontinuous riparian vegetation on right bank. vegetation. vegetation. Continuous very narrow young and medium-aged alder/willow-dominated corridor. Continuous narrow young and medium-aged alder/willow-dominated corridor. a >7% Little to no riparian 3-6% Minimal riparian 3-6% 3-6% 0.5 Î 2% Continuous very Channel Gradient (%) a Channel Characteristics gradient; boulder-cobble dominant. steep gradient step-pools; bedrock-boulder dominant. gradient; bedrock-boulder riffle-pool and plane-bed morphology with bedrock control on left bank. Entrenched, moderate gradient; boulder-cobble dominant. Pool-riffle morphology with alternating boulder/cobble bars. Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan from Poe (Distance Dam\[miles\]) Downstream Stream Segment 1.01 Î 1.60 Entrenched, moderate 1.60 Î 3.54 Highly entrenched, 3.54 Î 4.00 Entrenched, moderate 4.00 Î 6.25 6.25 Î 6.75 December 2019 Attachment D REF-1 PBR-3 Recommended Study Site Name gravel substrate. gravel substrate. gravel substrate. Boulder, cobble, and Depositional bars and features are suitable to support riparian vegetation. Landscape-scale riparian distribution, composition, and age structure is representative characteristic of the region and channel morphology. Boulder, cobble, and Depositional bars and features are suitable to support riparian vegetation. Landscape-scale riparian distribution, composition, and age structure is representative and characteristic of the region and channel morphology. Evidence of high recreation use. Upstream of Big Bend Reservoir. Boulder, cobble, and Depositional bars and features are suitable to support riparian vegetation. Landscape-scale riparian distribution, composition, and age structure is representative and characteristic of the region and channel morphology. Y N Y (Y/N) Rationale Reach Monitoring for Riparian Recommended Site Notes Swimmers Beach Between Swimmers Beach and Poe Powerhouse. Recreation apparent at both Swimmers Beach and Poe Powerhouse Beach. Below Milsap Bar Bridge Flow data and stage data are available from CDEC gage MER (Middle Fork Feather River at Merrimac) , FERC Project No. 2107 and Electric Company Notes Page D-4 Accessibility Trail access from Poe Powerhouse Access Road to right bank. Trail access from Poe Powerhouse Access Road to right bank and from Poe Powerhouse on left bank. Access from Milsap Bar Campground. c ©2019, Pacific Gas Poe Hydroelectric Project Potential BMI reference monitoring site a short distance upstream Implementation Study or License Monitoring Sites Aquatic Licensing Amphibian monitoring site Recreation study site Potential BMI monitoring site IFIM relicensing study site; stage-discharge relationship available Amphibian monitoring site Recreation study site Potential BMI monitoring site (shown on Figure D-1) Co-located and Nearby Woody Riparian Vegetation Continuous narrow young and medium-aged alder/willow-dominated corridor. young and medium-aged alder/willow-dominated corridor. Continuous wide young and medium-aged alder/willow-dominated corridor. a b <1% <1% Continuous narrow <2% Channel Gradient (%) a Channel Characteristics Pool-riffle morphology with alternating boulder/cobble bars. morphology with alternating cobble/gravel bars. Meandering pool-riffle morphology with alternating boulder/cobble bars. Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan from Poe (Distance Dam\[miles\]) Downstream Stream Segment 6.75 Î 7.05 7.05 Î 7.62 Meandering pool-riffle NA Estimated from Google earth imagery. As documented in Appendix E3-18 in PG&E (2003). The BMI and fish sites have been proposed for monitoring by PG&E in the draft monitoring plans under the new License. abc December 2019 Attachment D , FERC Project No. 2107 and Electric Company Page D-5 ©2019, Pacific Gas Poe Hydroelectric Project s and nearby aquatic monitoring sites. Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan Figure D-1. Proposed riparian monitoring site December 2019 Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan ATTACHMENT E Riparian Monitoring Datasheets December 2019 Page E-1 Attachment E Poe Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 2107 ©2019, Pacific Gas and Electric Company Attachment E 4 Tree 4 , FERC Project No. 2107 and Electric Company 0.002 Shrub Riparian Datasheets 4 5 ©2019, Pacific Gas Poe Hydroelectric Project Substrate Ground Layer 1 <1% 1 <10 1 <10 2 2-9% 2 10-24% 2 10-24% 3 10-39% 3 25-39% 3 25-39% 4 40-59% 4 40-59% 4 40-59% 5 60-99% 5 60-99% 5 60-99% 6 100% 6 100% 6 100% Silt 0.062 to 0.002 Clay Sand 0.063 to 2 Gravel 2 to 64 Cobble 64 to 256 Levels Cover Levels Cover Levels Cover Levels Size (mm) Boulder > 256 es recorded. Circle the dominate size class Bedrock - 2,3 1,3 Page E-2 Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan Canopy Cover Relative % Cover The amount of area the canopy layer covers within the plot area Relative cover of each species within the plot area Record all levels present for each speci Mayer and Laudenslayer, 1988 Based on Udden-Wentworth size classes. 12345 December 2019 2 Attachment E Notes iver Mile: ____________ Distance on Transect (m) Stop Stop Stop Stop Stop Stop Stop Stop Stop 3 Other , FERC Project No. 2107 and Electric Company Species Sub-Dominant activities, submerged vegetation. is, dead vegetation). 1 5 ©2019, Pacific Gas Line-Intercept Datasheet Poe Hydroelectric Project Attribute bble, gravel, sand, fines, dead vegetation. Tree Height 4 substrate, woody debr scence, grazing, other land use of the dominant species. Dominant Species Species % Cover Page E-3 Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan Bank Species or attribute (litter, bare ground, Fluvial landform, decadence, seneLitter, duff, woody debris, bedrock, boulder, coPercent cover of the species. Average tree or shrub height L or R Start Start Start Start Start Start Start Start Start Stream Segment and Site: _____________________ Date: ______________ Name: _____________________ GPS Waypoint: ____________ RTotal Riparian Corridor Width (m): __________________________ 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. December 2019 5 Attachment E River Mile: ___________ Total Number Old 4 Total Number Mature 3 , FERC Project No. 2107 and Electric Company Total Number Young 2 rout p ©2019, Pacific Gas S Poe Hydroelectric Project Total Number Seedling/ activities, fluvial landforms, substrate) 1 Age Class Datasheet along the Line-Intercept Transect Species Page E-4 Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan Bank L or R Include woody riparian and upland species. Seedling Shrub: 1 stem at the ground surface; or Sprout: dbh <1Ñ. Young Shrub: <10 stems/individual or Young Tree: dbh <3Ñ Mature shrub: 10 to 60 stems per individual; Mature tree: dbh 3 to 10Ñ Old shrub: >60 stems per individual; Old tree: dbh > 10Ñ Stream Segment and Site: ______________________ Date: ________________ Name: ______________ GPS Waypoint: _______________ 1. 2. 3. 4. 5 Notes or Other Observations (e.g. land use December 2019 Attachment E Channel (ft) Height above (ft) from Channel Distance hic Setting Physiograp , FERC Project No. 2107 and Electric Company % Cover for Each Species Substrate 3 Saplings ©2019, Pacific Gas Total Number Poe Hydroelectric Project Name: 2 Vegetation Data Physical Conditions activities, fluvial landforms, substrate) Total Number Seedling/Sprout Riparian Recruitment within Monitoring Site Datasheet 1 Species Page E-5 Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan Map ID No. Polygon Include woody riparian species. Seedling Shrub: 1 stem at the ground surface; or Sprout: dbh <1Ñ. Young Shrub: <10 stems/individual or Young Tree: dbh <3Ñ for trees or 5Ñ for cottonwoods. Stream Segment and Site:Date: 1. 2. 3. Notes or Other Observations (e.g. land use December 2019 Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan Photo Point Datasheet Site Name: Photo Point Identification Number: Date: Time: Weather Conditions: GPS Coordinates: Photographer: Camera Type: Subject of Photograph and Purpose of Photographs: Photo 1 Photo 2 Photo 3 Photo No.: Photo No.: Photo No.: Brief Description: Brief Description: Brief Description: Photo 4 Photo 5 Photo 6 Photo No.: Photo No.: Photo No.: Brief Description: Brief Description: Brief Description: Reference Point 1 Sketch of Photo and Reference Point Locations: Description: Marking: Distance to photo point marker (ft): Reference Point 2 Description: Marking: Distance to photo point marker (ft): Reference Point 3 Description: Marking: Distance to photo point marker (ft): December 2019 Page E-6 Attachment E Poe Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 2107 ©2019, Pacific Gas and Electric Company Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan ATTACHMENT F United States Forest Service and State Water Resources Control Board Consultation December 2019 Page F-1 Attachment F Poe Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 2107 ©2019, Pacific Gas and Electric Company Attachment F to provide sufficient each, release seeds in the deposition) and the different For seedlings to survive, the Forest Service, State ecession rates, inter and intra- provided in Wet and Above for a short period of time (weeks), rian species present along the North the release of seeds, conjunction with the results of the other biological ong the Project Bypass R at the time of seed release. e periods for riparian species (i.e., seed release, initial res slower down ramping rates from all Poe Dam flows e during the drier months and the plants are not too close ing of flows, spring flow rnamic physical environment to which riparian vegetation growing season, and sediment stribution, and structural and compositional complexity of ans require consultation with 000 acre-feet of flow will be PG&E Response to monitor riparian vegetation potentially affected by changes in instream Fish and Wildlife after each monitoring period to review the study results. snowmelt. These seeds are only viable ant species. The dominant woody ripa onwoods, species present al suitable recession rates must coincide with flows of varying magnitudes, tim The results of the riparian monitoring will be used in The following text (underlined) has been added to the Introduction to summarize the flows required by the Background information on the inter-relationships between riparian vegetation and the fluvial-geomorphic ÐThe new license contains requirements flows operations, including pulse flows, recreational flows, slower down ramping rates, higher minimum instream flows, and pulse flows. Under the new license, up to 6,Normal water years for recreational boating purposes if biological monitoring indicates the flows will not impact foothill yellow-legged frogs (FYLF). The new license requiunder PG&EÓs control and below 3,000 cubic feet per second (cfs) to protect FYLF and other biological resources. Pulse flows to flush fine grain sediment will be implemented when sediment monitoring indicates an accumulation of sediments within the reach.Ñ ÐThe patterns of riparian vegetation establishment and distribution along a river are created by the interaction of physical processes (e.g., annual flow variability, depth to groundwater during the life history characteristics of the dominFork Feather River (NFFR) have many life history adaptations that promote their success under dynamic and episodic, yet seasonally predictable, hydrologic conditions. Flow attributes that are important for maintaining the diriparian communities include: (1) inter-annual variability; (2) hydrograph shape; (3) frequency of high-magnitude scouring or Ðre-settingÑ flows (flows that generally occur every 10 to 25 years); and (4) frequency, magnitude, timing, and recession rates of spring flows (i.e., recruitment flows; flows that generally occur every 1.5 to 5 years). Variability in flows within and between years creates a dyresponds. Flow attributes during ecologically sensitive timestablishment, growing season) are particularly important for maintaining riparian vegetation. For successful recruitment to occur, flows ofmoisture to the seedlings and sprouts. This hydrology may occur in the same year as a re-setting flow or may occur several years later. Willows and cottspring, timed with elevated flows from requiring suitable moisture and soil conditions to be present flow recession rates must be slow, and groundwater must be available through the dry summer. Riparian vegetation often establishes in elevation zones where water is availablthe channel and susceptible to damage by high flows. The instream flows required by the new license are expected to enhance flow conditions that support riparian communities.Ñ ÐThe results of the riparian vegetation monitoring will be used in conjunction with the results of the other biological monitoring studies, including fish, benthic macroinvertebrates, and FYLFs, to evaluate the potential responses of biological resources to the changes operations under the new license.Ñ Accepted. new license: Accepted. conditions as been added to the Introduction Section, as follows: Clarification. monitoring studies to evaluate the potential responses of the biological resources to the changes in the flow regime required by the new license. The Biological Monitoring PlWater Board, and California Department ofThe results of the riparian monitoring will also be included in these discussions. The following text has been added to the Introduction Section: , FERC Project No. 2107 and Electric Company Page F-2 nts on the Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan. Suggest adding additional ©2019, Pacific Gas Poe Hydroelectric Project affect riparian vegetation? Ðchanges in instream flows, flows are affecting riparian vegetationÈÑ Include a summary of why and how the flows are being changed. Now the draft Plan just says includingÈÑ. The Water Quality Certification (2017) says ÐA riparian vegetation monitoring plan will help determine how increased If possible include a discussion of what changes are expected or hoped for as a result of the changes in instream flows. e.g, how are increases in minimum/base flows, ramping rates, pulse flows, whitewater flows expected to How will the results of this monitoring be used? Do any particular monitoring results prompt changes in management of instream flows or other management? Or reopen consultation about flows? It looks like SWRCB holds this responsibility, but I donÓt find anything in the WQC about what this means in terms of assessment or potentially requiring changes to required stream flows. Regarding details provided in the introduction: backgroundÈ. and State Water Resources Control Board Comme Paragraph Number Comment Section/ Page Number/ Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan 1 U.S. Forest Service 1.0 Introduction /1/-- Regarding details provided in the introduction: 2 U.S. Forest Service 1.0 Introduction /1/-- Regarding details provided in the introduction: 3 U.S. Forest Service 1.0 Introduction /1 /-- 4 U.S. Forest Service 1.0 Introduction /1/-- Regarding details provided in the introduction: See response to Comment 3. Number Commented By Comment Response to Unites States Forest Service December 2019 Attachment F ent and success of riparian ect (FERC No. 1962) located er time. The riparian recruitment most recent accepted standard.Ñ le for riparian establishm be the vegetation in relation to changes in elevation and recruitment monitoring for the RCC Project are similar, r the Rock Creek-Cresta Proj ears of a ten-year period between monitoring, PG&E will PG&E Response d Rock Creek-Cresta projects, as follows: lly, both monitoring studies include line-intercept surveys along topographic least twenty times the channel width.Ñ thods are consistent, and results will be comparable with the methods structure of the riparian community ov ill follow Baldwin et al. (2012) or A footnote has been added to clarify that the site-scale surveys focus on monitoring vegetation within a A new section has been added to the Plan that discusses the comparability of the riparian community A map has been added to Attachment D that shows the locations of the proposed riparian monitoring sites Section 4.4 has been revised to include the following underlined text: The text has been revised as follows: Ð4.2.3 Relationship to Nearby Riparian Monitoring Studies The riparian vegetation monitoring mespecified in the Riparian Vegetation Monitoring Plan foupstream of the Poe Project. Specificatransects established perpendicular to the channel to descridistance from the channel. Monitoring for both projects requires collecting age class distribution data for dominant riparian species to describe the age monitoring described in Section 4.2.1.2 and the riparian documenting the quality and quantity of potential areas suitabrecruitment within these areas over time.Ñ ÐIf no high flow event occurs during the first five yconduct riparian monitoring the fall of the fifth year.Ñ ÐGeneral botanical nomenclature w ÐMonitoring site reach lengths will be at Accepted. monitoring methods and results for the Poe an Accepted. and the monitoring site locations for the other biological monitoring, including FYLF, fish, and benthic macroinvertebrates. Clarification. reach, as follows: Accepted.Accepted. , FERC Project No. 2107 and Electric Company Page F-3 tation. ©2019, Pacific Gas used in assessing flow effects on Poe Hydroelectric Project an additional riparian monitoring ose Î i.e., how the methods in this unity within each monitoring site. that meets or exceeds 59,800 cubic prove on the RCC methods, allowing for eÑ: Define Î in footnote? ects at some point. , based on average daily flow measured at PG&EÓs 9 Will the results of this monitoring beother SWRCB Conditions? ÐThe new license streamflow conditions will alter flow levels and timing of flows relative to past project operations. Thus the following elements will need to be reestablished or re-verified following commencement of the new flow regime for typical oviposition (egg-laying) and rearing (tadpole) habitats for both occupied and non-occupied areas. The determination will include the new: temperature regimes, riparian vegetation establishment, encroachment and scouring, habitat conditions (water depths, velocities, bank slopes, etc.), and river bar formation/loss.Ñ Text Edit (underline): ÐIf a high flow feet per second (cfs)flow gage NF-23, occurs during the first five years of the ten year period between monitoring, PG&E will conduct the fall after the event occurs to document the potential effects of the flow event on the channel and riparian commIf no high flow event occurs during the first five years of a ten-year period between monitoring, PG&E will conduct riparian monitoring the fall of the fifth year.Ñ upstream projects and Merritt input on thPlan are similar or different or imcomparison among ProjRegarding the Proposed Monitoring Sites: Add info on how these sites overlap (or donÓt) with monitoring for other resources (fish/bmi, fylf, etc.). Also consider including this info in a new column in Table 4-2. Note that Forest Service 4e Condition No. 25 (Poe Reach Biological Monitoring) states: Regarding the term Ðsite-scalRegarding the nomenclature convention for the study: Revise to make flexible if this reference is updated or a new reference becomes the standard. Paragraph Number Comment Section/ Page Number/ Monitoring Sites/5/-- Methods/9/1 Transect Composition and Structure/11/-- 4.4 Monitoring Schedule/ 15/3 Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan 5 U.S. Forest Service 4.0 Methods /4/-- Regarding the study methods: As appropriate, reference methods used in 6 U.S. Forest Service 4.1.2 Proposed 7 U.S. Forest Service 4.2 Monitoring 8 U.S. Forest Service 4.2.1.1 Vegetation 9 SWRCB Number Commented By Comment A flow of this magnitude has been documented to result in substantial re-working of the channel and scouring of riparian vege 9 December 2019 Attachment F occur after a itment that may y trigger for monitoring the immediate effects of ee will work with the Forest Service and SWRCB to file encroachment in to the channel, lack of recruitment, or ll relevant documentation of coordination and consultation -magnitude scouring or Ðre-settingÑ flows (flows that and SWRCB, will review, update, and revise the Plan, if magnitude, timing, and recession rates of spring flows . Similarly, successful recru ears of a ten-year period between monitoring, PG&E will PG&E Response occur every 1.5 to 5 years); and drought.Ñ If the Licensee does not adopt a particular recommendation by USFWS or ons for not doing so. The Licensee will implement the revised Plan once ecruitment surveys. ͼ See response to Comments 1 and 2. The monitoring schedule has been revised to include riparian The proposed monitoring schedule includes a primar The description of the hydrologic analyses in Section 4.3.2 Hydrology has been updated to specify analyses Table 5-1 has been revised to include the following underlined text: See response to Comment 10. ÐThe results of the riparian vegetation monitoring will be related to the recent flow regime, including the inter-annual variability; hydrograph shape; occurrence of highgenerally occur every 10 to 25 years); and frequency, (i.e., recruitment flows; flows that generallyÐIf no high flow event occurs during the first five yconduct riparian monitoring the fall of the fifth year.Ñ ÐThe Licensee, in consultation with the Forest Service necessary, during the report review period every ten (10) years. Changes to be considered include methodologies and monitoring frequencies based on effects to the riparian habitat from operations. After consultation and agreement with the Forest Service and SWRCB, the Licensthe updated Plan with FERC. The Licensee will include awith the updated Plan filed with FERC.CDFW, the filing will include the reasapproved by FERC. Accepted. that will be completed to describe the relationship between the hydrology and the condition of the riparian resources, as follows: Clarification. monitoring in the fifth year of a ten-year period if a high flow does not occur during the first five years of a ten-year period between monitoring. Clarification.high magnitude scouring floods on riparian vegetation. Riparian responses to other triggers, such as multi-year droughts, will not be immediate. Potential responses such as riparian health would occur more slowly, and would be documented at the monitoring frequency in the revised monitoring schedule incorporating the monitoring in the fifth year of a ten-year period if a high flow does not occur during the first five years of a ten-year monitoring periodhigh magnitude and scouring flood will be documented in the subsequent monitoring period in the age class data collection and riparian r An additional section has been added to section 5.0 that would provide an opportunity for PG&E and the agencies to discuss the potential need for updates or revisions to the Plan. Section 5.3 Plan Revisions has been added as follows: Accepted. Accepted. , FERC Project No. 2107 and Electric Company Page F-4 ©2019, Pacific Gas rian vegetation.Ñ However, the ars of the ten year period between Poe Hydroelectric Project puty Director to evaluate the effects of ereÓs time, maybe we could discuss how summary/evaluation of what the results erables: Include a that occurs within the first 5 ye increased flows are affecting ripa a how - Ð Regarding the monitoring schedule and hydrologic analysis: Good discussion on the WebEx on 9/18/19. SWRCB will need to weigh in on any of this that doesnÓt meet their Condition. Recommend looking at Yuba River Project (FERC No. 2246) Aquatic Monitoring Plan for possible triggering language. Let me know if you need a copy of that. Agree that high flow events are good triggers, but it may be just as important to understand what comes after the high flow event Î e.g., is event followed by additional wet years or multiple dry years. While this is somewhat captured in Section 4.2.2 above, it may be worth considering how to assess the hydrologic pattern and identifying other potential triggering events, such as multiple dry years. Regarding the monitoring schedule: The SWRCB identified a total of 11 riparian monitoring events Î could these be distributed in response to various triggers, with a requirement that if no trigger is met, then monitoring would occur on 10 year intervals?Definitely an interesting concept. If ththis might work with the requirements I added in. Text Edit: ÐLicense years 10, 20, and 30, and every 10 years thereafter, for the term of the license and any extensions; and after a high magnitude flow (59,800 cfs)monitoring or, if no high magnitude flow occurs within the first 5 years, the fall of the fifth year between monitoring periods.Ñ mean only mention of ÐevaluationÑ I can find is where the SWRCB Condition 11 seems to indicate that itÓs up to the ÐDeflow changes on riparian vegetation.Ñ Perhaps this part of the process needs to be explained in the Introduction. Paragraph Number Comment Section/ Page Number/ 4.4 Monitoring Schedule/15/-- Schedule/15/-- Schedule/15/-- Schedule/17/Table 5.1 Poe Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Poe Riparian Monitoring Plan 10 U.S. Forest Service 11 U.S. Forest Service 4.4 Monitoring 12 SWRCB 4.4 Monitoring 13 SWRCB 5.2 Reporting 14 U.S. Forest Service 5.1 Deliverables/18/1 Regarding deliv Number Commented By Comment December 2019 Enclosure B SWRCB Approval of Plan State Water Resources Control Board MAR 06, 2020 Mr. Steven Bauman, P.E. Senior Relicensing Project Manager Mail Code N11D P.O. Box 770000 San Francisco, CA 94177 sjb2@pge.com Poe Hydroelectric Project Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Project No. 2107 Butte County North Fork Feather River SUBJECT: APPROVAL OF RECREATION TECHNICAL REVIEW GROUP MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING, STREAMFLOW GAGING PLAN, FISH AND BENTHIC MACROINVERTEBRATE MONITORING PLAN, RIPARIAN MONITORING PLAN, AND TRIBUTARY ACCESS PLAN Dear Mr. Bauman, On December 29, 2017, the State Water Resources Control Board (State Water Board) issued a water quality certification (certification) for the Pacific Gas and Electric PG&E to develop a memorandum of understanding and management plans for review and approval by the Deputy Director of the Division of Water Rights (Deputy Director). PG&E submitted the following documents for Deputy Director review and approval, as noted below (listed in order of applicable condition number): 1) Recreation Technical Review Group Memorandum of Understanding (Condition 6, Recreational Flows; submitted November 5, 2019); 2) Gaging Plan (Condition 7, Gaging Maintenance; submitted November 22, 2019); 3) Fish and Benthic Macroinvertebrate Monitoring Plan (Condition 9, Poe Bypass Reach Biological Monitoring; submitted November 5, 2019); 4) Riparian Monitoring Plan (Condition 11, Riparian Monitoring; submitted December 19, 2019); and 5) Tributary Access Plan (Condition 13, Tributary Access; submitted December 18, 2019). Mr. Steven Bauman-2-MAR 06, 2020 Recreation Technical Review Group Memorandum of Understanding Condition 6 requires PG&E to establish a Recreation Technical Review Group (RTRG) and develop a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between United States Forest Service (Forest Service), United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), American Whitewater, California Sportfishing Protection Alliance, Butte County, Plumas County, and PG&E. The goal of the RTRG is to develop a schedule for releasing 6,000 acre-feet of recreation flows in the Poe bypass reach in normal and wet water years when biological monitoring indicates flows will not impact foothill yellow-legged frogs. The MOU establishes the participant roles and a process for dispute resolution. PG&E circulated the MOU for signature on July 25, 2019; all signatory parties signed the MOU by October 23, 2019. Gaging Plan Condition 7 requires PG&E to develop a Gaging Plan. The purpose of the Gaging Plan is to outline how PG&E will document compliance with streamflow requirements and provide streamflow data to the public. The Gaging Plan includes Project gage information, streamflow data quality assurance and quality control methods, and streamflow data storage and availability. PG&E received concurrence on the Gaging Plan from the Forest Service and CDFW on November 20, 2019. Fish and Benthic Macroinvertebrate Monitoring Plan Condition 9 requires PG&E to develop a biological monitoring plan for fish, benthic macroinvertebrates, and amphibians in consultation with State Water Board staff, Forest Service, CDFW, and USFWS. During early consultation, PG&E and the consulting agencies agreed to develop two plans to meet this requirement: a Fish and Benthic Macroinvertebrate Monitoring Plan (Fish and BMI Plan); and an Amphibian Monitoring Plan. The Fish and BMI Plan includes survey methods, reporting requirements, and procedures for updating the Fish and BMI Plan, if necessary. PG&E received concurrence from USFWS and CDFW on October 15, 2019, and Forest Service approval on December 6, 2019. Riparian Monitoring Plan Condition 11 requires PG&E to develop the Riparian Monitoring Plan in consultation with State Water Board staff and the Forest Service. The purpose of the Riparian Monitoring Plan is to determine how minimum instream flows in the new license affect riparian vegetation in the Poe bypass reach. The Riparian Monitoring Plan includes survey methods, methods to analyze riparian vegetation data in the context of recent and historic flow regimes, and procedures for updating the Riparian Monitoring Plan, if necessary. PG&E received concurrence from the Forest Service on December 4, 2019. Mr. Steven Bauman-3-MAR 06, 2020 PG&E plans to conduct baseline riparian monitoring no later than October of 2020 if it receives timely approval of the plan by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). Tributary Access Plan Condition 13 requires PG&E to develop a Tributary Access Plan in consultation with State Water Board staff, the Forest Service, CDFW, and USFWS. The purpose of the Tributary Access Plan is to determine if minimum instream flows in the new license affect rainbow trout access to Flea Valley Creek and Mill Creek. The Tributary Access Plan includes methods to analyze connectivity, reporting to agencies, and development of long-term monitoring protocols, if necessary. PG&E received concurrence from CDFW on December 5, 2019, and USFWS on December 10, 2019. Forest Service review and approval of the Tributary Access Plan is pending. Memorandum of Understanding and Management Plans Approval State Water Board staff reviewed the RTRG MOU, Gaging Plan, Fish and BMI Plan, Riparian Monitoring Plan, and Tributary Access Plan and find that they comply with Condition 6, Condition 7, Condition 9, Condition 11, and Condition 13, respectively, of the certification. The RTRG MOU, Gaging Plan, Fish and BMI Plan, Riparian Monitoring Plan, and Tributary Access Plan are hereby approved. PG&E shall implement the approved RTRG MOU, Gaging Plan, Fish and BMI Plan, Riparian Monitoring Plan, and Tributary Access Plan throughout the term of the FERC license and any extensions. Any revisions to the RTRG MOU, Gaging Plan, Fish and BMI Plan, Riparian Monitoring Plan, or Tributary Access Plan must be approved by the Deputy Director and filed with FERC prior to implementation. If you have questions regarding this letter please contact Savannah Downey, Project Manager, by email at Savannah.Downey@waterboards.ca.gov or by phone at (916) 322-1585. Written correspondence should be directed to: State Water Resources Control Board Division of Water Rights Water Quality Certification Program Attn: Savannah Downey P.O. Box 2000 Sacramento, CA 95812-2000 Sincerely, ORIGINAL SIGNED BY Erik Ekdahl, Deputy Director Division of Water Rights cc: On next page. Mr. Steven Bauman-4-MAR 06, 2020 cc: Mr. Patrick Pulupa, Executive Officer Mr. Paul Gosselin, Director Central Valley Regional Water Quality Butte County Department of Water and Control Board Resource Conservation 11020 Sun Center Drive, #200 308 Nelson Avenue Rancho Cordova, CA 95670 Oroville, CA 95965 Mr. Randy Wilson, Planning Director Plumas County Planning and Building Services 555 Main Street Quincy, CA 95971 ec: Ms. Amy Lind, Forest Service Ms. Sarah Lose, CDFW Amy.Lind@usda.gov Sarah.Lose@wildlife.ca.gov Ms. Beth Lawson, CDFW Ms. Leigh Bartoo, USFWS Beth.Lawson@wildlife.gov Aondrea_Bartoo@fws.gov Mr. Dave Steindorf, American Mr. Chris Shutes, California Sportfishing Whitewater Protection Alliance Dave@americanwhitewater.org blancapaloma@msn.com From:"FERC eSubscription" Subject:FERC Correspondence With Government Agencies issued in FERC P-803-115 Date:Wednesday, June 16, 2021 8:16:42 AM .ATTENTION: This message originated from outside Butte County. Please exercise judgment before opening attachments, clicking on links, or replying.. On 6/16/2021, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), Washington D.C., issued this document: Docket(s): P-803-115 Lead Applicant: Pacific Gas and Electric Company Filing Type: FERC Correspondence With Government Agencies Description: Letter to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Fisheries discussing the request for concurrence with endangered species determination for the DeSabla-Centerville Hydroelectric Project under P-803. To view the document for this Issuance, click here https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://elibrary.ferc.gov/eLibrary/filelist?accession_num=20210616- 3018__;!!KNMwiTCp4spf!VfEHHc_Wu8O-3Z6KY8UGg- MHkNQza5V6kaqFgNJt6asu71xc43s7YJXg2ibl0MvICs-jk9w_fU0$ To modify your subscriptions, click here: https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://ferconline.ferc.gov/eSubscription.aspx__;!!KNMwiTCp4spf!VfEHHc_Wu8O- 3Z6KY8UGg-MHkNQza5V6kaqFgNJt6asu71xc43s7YJXg2ibl0MvICs-jgFrP3ss$ ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Please do not respond to this email. Online help is available here: https://urldefense.com/v3/__http://www.ferc.gov/efiling-help.asp__;!!KNMwiTCp4spf!VfEHHc_Wu8O- 3Z6KY8UGg-MHkNQza5V6kaqFgNJt6asu71xc43s7YJXg2ibl0MvICs-jCtqP-JM$ or for phone support, call 866-208-3676. Comments and Suggestions can be sent to this email address: mailto:FERCOnlineSupport@Ferc.gov FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION Washington D.C. 20426 OFFICE OF ENERGY PROJECTS Project No. 803-115 DeSabla-Centerville Project Pacific Gas and Electric Company June 16, 2021 VIA ELECTRONIC MAIL Ms. Cathy Marcinkevage NOAA Fisheries West Coast Regional Office ccvo.consultationrequests@noaa.gov Subject: Request for concurrence with determinations under section 7 of the Endangered Species Act Dear Ms. Marcinkevage: The purpose of this letter is to request your concurrence with our determination under section 7 of the Endangered Species Act for the DeSabla-Centerville Project No. 803, located on Butte Creek, West Branch Feather River, and their tributaries in Butte County, California. Background On May 26, 2021, and supplemented June 2, 2021, Pacific Gas and Electric Company (licensee) filed a request with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (Commission) for a temporary variance of the minimum flow requirements under Article 39 of the project license. The project area is located within the range of the federally- listed California Central Valley steelhead, as well as Central Valley spring-run Chinook salmon and its critical habitat. Article 39 of the project license requires that the licensee maintain minimum stream flows at various project locations. In particular, the licensee is required to maintain year-round instantaneous minimum flows of 7 cubic feet per second (cfs) in the West Branch Feather River below Hendricks Head Dam and in Butte Creek below Butte Project No. 803-115 -2- Head Dam, as well as 10 cfs in Butte Creek below Lower Centerville Diversion Dam during dry water years. In addition, the licensee is required to release 2 cfs from Philbrook Reservoir into Philbrook Creek during all water year types. Commission staff consider the baseline conditions for the proposed action to be current project operations and the existing license requirements under license Article 39. Proposed Action The licensee is requesting a temporary variance of the minimum flow requirements in the West Branch Feather River below the Hendricks Head Dam (gage BW-40), in Butte Creek below the Butte Head Dam (gage BW-97), and in Philbrook Creek below Philbrook Dam (gage BW-3). The licensee requests that the instantaneous dry year minimum flow requirement of 7 cubic feet per second (cfs) at Hendricks Head and Butte Head Diversion Dams be temporarily modified to a 7 cfs, 48-hour average minimum flow. The licensee states that the temporary variance would eliminate the need to release additional buffer flows of 4 to 5 cfs and instead, allocate those flows to the 1 lower reaches of Butte Creek, where spring-run Chinook salmon are currently holding. In addition, the licensee requests that the minimum flow requirement in Philbrook Creek be reduced to 0.8 cfs, with a 0.2 cfs buffer, for a total of 1 cfs. The licensee requests the above variance due to exceptionally dry conditions and limited water availability in the project area. Additionally, the licensee states that the proposed variance would preserve cold water storage in Philbrook Reservoir, increase flow to Butte Creek via the Hendricks Canal, and decrease water residence time in the DeSabla Forebay, thus providing additional water to Butte Creek during the hot summer months to minimize high temperature effects to Central Valley spring-run Chinook salmon. However, as explained below, the proposed action would have ancillary benefits to Central Valley steelhead. The licensee requests the variance until February 28, 2022 to protect spawning and redds, but may end the variance earlier if fall or winter rains bring precipitation to early spring-run Chinook salmon life stages, and in consultation with the resource agencies. 1 Spring-run Chinook typically are impeded in their migration in the vicinity of the quartz pool, located approximately one mile downstream (south) of the Lower Centerville Diversion Dam, while the upstream extent of steelhead migration is the Lower Centerville Diversion Dam itself. See appendix for locations of project facilities. Project No. 803-115 -3- Analysis Prior to filing its request with the Commission, the licensee requested technical support from NMFS staff on the proposed variance, which included meetings and email correspondence. This effort culminated in a May 21, 2021 letter from NMFS staff in support of the variance. In its May 26, 2021 filing, the licensee provides an analysis of 2 the potential effects of the proposed variance.The following provides an overview of the proposed variance and Commission staff’s effect determination. The licensee’s proposed variance would reallocate water supply in the upper watershed with the broader objective of reserving water supply and decreasing water temperatures in the lower watershed, where spring-run Chinook salmon are holding. Currently, the lower Centerville Diversion Dam on Butte Creek (see figure 1) is the upstream extent of migration where fish passage is currently blocked. The proposed variance would reduce instream flows in Philbrook Creek below Philbrook Dam, in the West Branch Feather River below Hendricks Head Diversion Dam, and in Butte Creek below Butte Head Diversion Dam. This location is outside of the range of federally- listed migratory salmonids, which are blocked by the Feather River Fish Barrier Dam, located downstream of Lake Oroville. However, the remaining 1 cfs alternative flow in Philbrook Creek would replicate that which was implemented in 2015 under similar drought conditions and should ensure adequate flow and reduced water temperatures for a nominal fishery located below the reservoir comprised of rainbow and brown trout. Approval of the licensee’s request would reduce flows in Philbrook Creek by 1 cfs, or 50% below the required flow of 2 cfs. The reduced instream flows would allow for cold-water pool and reservoir storage conservation, which would prolong cold water released later into the summer months. Downstream of Philbrook Dam, Philbrook Creeks meets with the West Branch Feather River before meeting the Hendricks Head Diversion Dam. At the Hendricks Head Diversion Dam, the licensee would forego releasing a 4-5 cfs buffer flow, with these flows instead being diverted to the Hendricks Canal, through the DeSabla Forebay where they would then pass through the DeSabla Powerhouse before joining Butte Creek. The increased flows in Hendricks canal would also reduce residence time and warming, which would otherwise occur in the DeSabla Forebay, thus increasing flow and decreasing water temperatures in Butte Creek. Similar 2 The licensee’s filing can be found at: https://elibrary.ferc.gov/eLibrary/filelist?document_id=14960059&optimized=false and https://elibrary.ferc.gov/eLibrary/filelist?document_id=14962383&optimized=false Project No. 803-115 -4- to Philbrook Creek, the West Branch Feather River contains a fishery primarily composed of small rainbow and brown trout, with additional brook trout, Sacramento sucker, and other cyprinids. The proposed variance would also replicate the 2015 flow variance and would result in a closer approximation of the 7 cfs required minimum flow, while still providing the flows considered adequate under the current license to provide habitat for resident fish species in a dry water year. Similarly, at Butte Head Dam, the licensee would forego releasing a 4-5 cfs buffer flow in Butte Creek. The additional 4-5 cfs would instead be allocated to the Butte Creek Canal, where it would eventually reach the DeSabla Forebay before joining Butte Creek via the DeSabla penstock and powerhouse. Flows in Butte Creek below Lower Centerville Diversion Dam during dry water years are typically managed to meet the minimum flow requirement of the license, which equates to 10 cfs plus an additional buffer flow. The increased flows in the Butte Canal would reduce residence time and warming, which would otherwise occur in the DeSabla Forebay, thus increasing flow and decreasing water temperatures in Butte Creek. The fishery below Butte Head Dam is comprised of small rainbow and brown trout. The proposed variance would also result in a closer approximation of the 7 cfs required minimum flow, while still providing the flows considered adequate under the current license to provide habitat for resident fish species in a dry water year. As a result of the modified water allocations, Commission staff conclude that the proposed action would benefit Central Valley spring-run Chinook salmon by reducing water temperatures in Butte Creek, which would otherwise increase gradually with higher ambient temperatures in the summer and fall, thus reducing risk of mortality associated with elevated water temperatures. In addition, the proposed action would benefit juvenile steelhead, which may be present in the system below Lower Centerville Diversion Dam through reduced temperatures. The increased 4-5 cfs flows above the baseline 10 cfs required by the project license would also increase available aquatic habitat in Butte Creek. Overall, the proposed variance would be wholly beneficial to aquatic resources in Butte Creek below Lower Centerville Diversion Dam, including federally-listed spring- run Chinook salmon and steelhead. Due to the urgent nature of the variance, Commission staff have not conducted a comprehensive analysis of every single alternative for conserving water and reducing water temperatures in lower Butte Creek. Rather, the proposed variance was developed in consultation with the resource agencies and constitutes a best management approach to balancing multiple competing interests and project purposes while ensuring instream flows for other aquatic species and promoting water rights. Project No. 803-115 -5- Conclusion Commission staff have reviewed the licensee’s May 26 and June 2, filings, and adopt the findings therein as part of this analysis. In addition, Commission staff are including by reference, letters of support from the California State Water Resources Control Board, California Department of Fish and Wildlife, and the Conservation Groups, which include the California Sportfishing Protection Alliance, Friends of Butte 3 Creek, American Whitewater, and Friends of the River. Owing to the purely beneficial nature of the proposed variance, Commission staff conclude that the proposed variance may affect, but is not likely to adversely affect California Central Valley steelhead or Central Valley spring-run Chinook salmon or their critical habitat. Therefore, we do not believe that formal consultation is required under the Endangered Species Act. Please tell us in writing within 30 days if you do or do not agree with our assessment. The Commission strongly encourages electronic filing. Please file your response using the Commission’s eFiling system at http://www.ferc.gov/docsfiling/efiling.asp. For assistance, please contact FERC Online Support at FERCOnlineSupport@ferc.gov, (866) 208-3676 (toll free), or (202) 502-8659 (TTY). In lieu of electronic filing, please send a paper copy. Submissions sent via the U.S. Postal Service must be addressed to: Kimberly D. Bose, Secretary, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, 888 First Street NE, Room 1A, Washington, DC 20426. Submissions sent via any other carrier must be addressed to: Kimberly D. Bose, Secretary, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, 12225 Wilkins Avenue, Rockville, Maryland 20852. The first page of any filing should include docket number P-803-115. 3 The resource agency’s letters of support are found in the licensee’s May 26, 2021 filing and the Conservation Groups’ letter of support can be found on the Commission’s elibrary system at https://elibrary.ferc.gov/eLibrary/filelist?accession_num=20210607- 5055 Project No. 803-115 -6- Thank you for your assistance. If you have any questions concerning this letter, please contact Mr. John Aedo at (415) 369-3335 or at john.aedo@ferc.gov. Sincerely, Andrea Claros Chief, Aquatic Resources Branch Division of Hydropower Administration and Compliance cc: VIA FERC SERVICE Mr. Jan Nimick Pacific Gas and Electric Company 245 Market Street Mail Code: N11E San Francisco, CA 94105 Project No. 803-115 -7- Appendix- Locations of major project facilities. (Source: PG&E, as modified by staff) Notes: 1-Inskip Creek, 2-Kelsey Creek, 3-Stevens Creek, 4-Clear Creek, 5-Little Butte Creek, 6-Little West Fork, 7-Cunningham Ravine, 8-Long Ravine, 9-Oro Fino Ravine, 10-Emma Ravine,11-Coal Claim Ravine, 12-Helltown Ravine. From:"FERC eSubscription" Subject:General Correspondence issued in FERC P-619-000 Date:Thursday, June 17, 2021 3:27:08 PM .ATTENTION: This message originated from outside Butte County. Please exercise judgment before opening attachments, clicking on links, or replying.. On 6/17/2021, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), Washington D.C., issued this document: Docket(s): P-619-000 Lead Applicant: Pacific Gas and Electric Company Filing Type: General Correspondence Compliance Directives Description: Letter to Pacific Gas and Electric Company providing comments on the access improvements authorization request for Grizzly Forebay Dam, part of the Bucks Creek Hydroelectric Project under P-619. To view the document for this Issuance, click here https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://elibrary.ferc.gov/eLibrary/filelist?accession_num=20210617- 3163__;!!KNMwiTCp4spf!Wh4i9wUEMgF3JIOTy8TjYFnWsncOS760KZPBaMW7o37-0-2djCJsvwtOLZ_seI7iI-l1yqz-YUQ$ To modify your subscriptions, click here: https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://ferconline.ferc.gov/eSubscription.aspx__;!!KNMwiTCp4spf!Wh4i9wUEMgF3JIOTy8TjYFnWsncOS760KZPBaMW7o37- 0-2djCJsvwtOLZ_seI7iI-l1k7SXuhw$ ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Please do not respond to this email. Online help is available here: https://urldefense.com/v3/__http://www.ferc.gov/efiling-help.asp__;!!KNMwiTCp4spf!Wh4i9wUEMgF3JIOTy8TjYFnWsncOS760KZPBaMW7o37-0- 2djCJsvwtOLZ_seI7iI-l1hRxA5MA$ or for phone support, call 866-208-3676. Comments and Suggestions can be sent to this email address: mailto:FERCOnlineSupport@Ferc.gov FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION Office of Energy Projects Division of Dam Safety and Inspections San Francisco Regional Office 100 First Street, Suite 2300 San Francisco, CA 94105-3084 (415) 369-3300 Office (415) 369-3322 Facsimile June 17, 2021 In reply refer to: Project No. 619-CA Mr. Jan Nimick, Vice President Pacific Gas and Electric Company Mail Code N11E P.O. Box 770000 San Francisco, CA 94177-0001 Re: Grizzly Forebay Dam Access Improvements Authorization Request Dear Mr. Nimick: This is in response to a letter dated April 29, 2021 from Ms. Teri Smyly that submitted the Access Improvements Authorization Request for Grizzly Forebay Dam, which is part of the Bucks Creek Hydroelectric Project, FERC No. 619. We have reviewed the submittal, and we have the following comments: 1. Please submit the Temporary Construction Emergency Action Plan (TCEAP) for review. 2. Provide additional information on the maximum depth and extent required for excavation of the concrete footings. 3. The rock stabilization notes on drawing 3103045 state that rock stabilization could be required in some areas along the project stairs and trail improvements. Supporting design documents (i.e. design calculations for anchors, rock coring Any work associated with rock stabilization will require the submittal of required design documents and authorization from this office prior to proceeding. 4. Clarify who from the QCIP that has stop work authority will be onsite during the work in Section 3 Responsibilities of the QCIP. 2 5. Provide the name and resume of the Field Inspector in the Project Organization Chart in enclosure 5 of the QCIP. 6. Submit the resume of Jeff Jukkola who is shown as having stop work authority on the Project Organization Chart of QCIP. Provided that Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) addresses the above comments within 10 days of the date of this letter, PG&E is authorized to immediately proceed with construction. Failure to adequately address our comments within 10 days will require a suspension of all work until the comments are addressed. Given the short duration of the project, monthly construction reports will not be required. However, within 90 days of completion of construction, a final construction report, which addresses the applicable items in Enclosure 1, should be submitted. Within 90 days of completion of construction of the facilities authorized by this letter, you must file for Commission approval, revised Exhibits A, F, and G, as applicable, to describe and show those project facilities as built. If you determine that previously approved exhibits reflect the as-built facilities and no revisions are necessary, you must file a letter stating the approved exhibits reflect the as-built project facilities. To assist Commission staff in the review of any revised Exhibit A, we strongly recommend that you file a revised Exhibit A, in its entirety, in two forms: 1. A strikethrough format (i.e., strikethrough items to be removed, and underline or bold items to be added to the exhibit), and 2. A final, clean copy incorporating the changes (i.e., without the strikethrough, underline, and bold notations). You must separate Exhibit F drawings from the other project exhibits, and label and file them as Critical Energy Infrastructure Information (CEII) material under 18 CFR § 388.113. The submission should consist of, as applicable: 1) a public portion consisting of a cover letter and the Exhibits A and G; and 2) a CEII portion containing only the Exhibit F drawings. The Commission strongly encourages electronic filing. Please file the requested informa http://www.ferc.gov/docs- filing/efiling.asp. For assistance, please contact FERC Online Support atFERCOnlineSupport@ferc.gov, (866) 208-3676 (toll free), or (202) 502-8659 (TTY). In lieu of electronic filing, you may submit a paper copy. Submissions sent via the U.S. Postal Service must be addressed to: Kimberly D. Bose, Secretary, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, 888 First Street NE, Room 1A, Washington, DC 20426. Submissions sent via any other carrier must be addressed to: Kimberly D. Bose, Secretary, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, 12225 Wilkins Avenue, Rockville, 3 MD 20852. Your filing must include a cover letter that identifies the project number and the reason for the submittal. Also within 90 days of completion of construction, PG&E should submit the following construction certifications, which must be verified in accordance with Title 18, Section 12.13 of the Code of Federal Regulations (18 CFR 12.13): 1. A certification by the Design Engineer that the project was constructed in accordance with the design intent 2. A certification by the Quality Control Manager that the inspection and testing program resulted in the conclusion that the project was constructed in accordance with the plans and specifications reviewed by the Commission 3. A certification by the Licensee (PG&E) that the project was constructed in accordance with the design intent and in accordance with the plans and specifications reviewed by the Commission Sample certifications are given in Enclosure 2. If the plans and specifications are revised during the construction process, it is PG&E Design Engineer, the Resident Engineer, the Project Manager, the FERC, and you, prior to proceeding with the changes. Also, you are reminded that no changes may be made to the operation of the project without first coordinating those proposed changes with the FERC. PG&E is responsible for ensuring completion of any necessary environmental coordination with resource agencies as well as the procurement of any federal, state, or local permits required for the work. We appreciate your continued efforts dam safety program. If you have any questions, please contact me at (415) 369-3318. Sincerely, Frank L. Blackett, P.E. Regional Engineer Enclosures (2) 4 cc: Ms. Sharon Tapia, Chief CA Dept. of Water Resources Division of Safety of Dams P.O. Box 942836 Sacramento, CA 94236-0001 Items to be Addressed in Final Construction Report for Enclosure 1 The Access Improvement Project at Grizzly Forebay FERC No. 619 FINAL CONSTRUCTION REPORTS FROM LICENSEES The Final Construction Report should be submitted within 90 days of completion of the work. This report should include all information pertinent to dam safety in a concise form. It should be included in the project file and should be given to the independent consultant for his or her safety inspection and analyses, if applicable. As such, the report should contain a summary of information in each of the applicable sections indicated below (the information was previously presented in the monthly reports). Construction difficulties should be reported under the appropriate sections. For conciseness, test results should be presented in a tabular format, with an indication of the applicable standards. Finally, in those cases where there is nothing to report under a specific heading, a statement of non-applicability will suffice. 1. General. Briefly present the reason for construction and description of the work with dates of the beginning and end of construction. Include reservoir drawdown and filing dates, and any findings regarding the original structure. 2. Foundations. Discuss the condition of the foundation (faults, etc.) and the treatment of the foundation. Attach a foundation mapping. 3. Embankments. Describe the equipment and the types of materials used in filters and fills. Attach gradation and compaction requirements and all test results. 4. Concrete work. Describe the equipment and the types of materials used in all concrete work. Include all grout test results and describe any surface treatments. 5. Anchors. Present a summary of any drilling operations, including boring logs; results of water pressure tests; anchor design calculations, design loads, and specifications; results of grout tests; results of proof and performance tests; and a summary of the acceptance criteria. 6. Instrumentation. Present plots of existing instrumentation readings taken during construction if the readings are affected by the work. Include a plan and schedule for calibration of all new instrumentation. 7. Drawings. Attach as-built drawings reduced in size to 8.5"x11" or 11"x17". The drawings should include plan and section views, and details of the structures affected by the new work. The plan and section views should show any new instrumentation that was installed as part of the work. Page 1 of 1 Enclosure 2 CERTIFICATION By Design Engineer CERTIFICATION OF CONSTRUCTION PAGE 1 OF 3 FERC Project No. Construction Project Description: Design Drawings/Specifications: Quality Control and Inspection Program (QCIP) dated: This is a certification by the Design Engineer that the project was constructed in accordance with the design intent. ***************************************************************************** VERIFICATION STATE OF CALIFORNIA \] COUNTY OF \], SS: The undersigned, being first duly sworn, states that he/she has read the above document and knows the contents of it, and that all of the statements contained in that document are true and correct, to the best of his/her knowledge and belief (per 18CFR Part 12, Paragraph 12.13). Design Engineer (Print Name) Signature \[STAMP\] Sworn to and subscribed before me this day of , 20 NOTARY PUBLIC \[SEAL\] Enclosure 2 CERTIFICATION By Quality Control Manager CERTIFICATION OF CONSTRUCTION PAGE 2 OF 3 FERC Project No. Construction Project Description: Design Drawings/Specifications: Quality Control and Inspection Program (QCIP) dated: This is a certification by the Quality Control Manager that the inspection and testing program resulted in the conclusion that the project was constructed in accordance with the plans and specifications reviewed by the Commission. ***************************************************************************** VERIFICATION STATE OF CALIFORNIA \] COUNTY OF \], SS: The undersigned, being first duly sworn, states that he/she has read the above document and knows the contents of it, and that all of the statements contained in that document are true and correct, to the best of his/her knowledge and belief (per 18CFR Part 12, Paragraph 12.13). Quality Control Manager (Print Name) Signature \[STAMP\] Sworn to and subscribed before me this day of , 20 NOTARY PUBLIC \[SEAL Enclosure 3 CERTIFICATION By Licensee or Exemptee CERTIFICATION OF CONSTRUCTION PAGE 3 OF 3 FERC Project No. Construction Project Description: Design Drawings/Specifications: Quality Control and Inspection Program (QCIP) dated: This is a certification by the Licensee or Exemptee that the project was constructed in accordance with the design intent and in accordance with the plans and specifications reviewed by the Commission. ************************************************************************ ***** VERIFICATION STATE OF CALIFORNIA \] COUNTY OF \], SS: The undersigned, being first duly sworn, states that he/she has read the above document and knows the contents of it, and that all of the statements contained in that document are true and correct, to the best of his/her knowledge and belief (per 18CFR Part 12, Paragraph 12.13). For Licensee or Exemptee (Print Name) Signature \[STAMP\] Sworn to and subscribed before me this day of , 20 NOTARY PUBLIC \[SEAL\] From:"FERC eSubscription" Subject:General Correspondence issued in FERC P-619-000 Date:Wednesday, June 9, 2021 3:35:04 PM .ATTENTION: This message originated from outside Butte County. Please exercise judgment before opening attachments, clicking on links, or replying.. On 6/9/2021, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), Washington D.C., issued this document: Docket(s): P-619-000 Lead Applicant: Pacific Gas and Electric Company Filing Type: General Correspondence Compliance Directives Description: Letter to Pacific Gas and Electric Company providing comments on the responses to FERC comments on the Phase 2 work plan to assess the concrete condition at Grizzly Forebay Dam, part of the Bucks Creek Project under P-619. To view the document for this Issuance, click here https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://elibrary.ferc.gov/eLibrary/filelist?accession_num=20210609- 3063__;!!KNMwiTCp4spf!SRhpUAFozRJuQNbfTz9lxuWZwv-HNktcoygS-cDn0CDGU6B-0QeYJsSq2IJhgahaZ83VOZTIpko$ To modify your subscriptions, click here: https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://ferconline.ferc.gov/eSubscription.aspx__;!!KNMwiTCp4spf!SRhpUAFozRJuQNbfTz9lxuWZwv- HNktcoygS-cDn0CDGU6B-0QeYJsSq2IJhgahaZ83VZanEZ1M$ ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Please do not respond to this email. Online help is available here: https://urldefense.com/v3/__http://www.ferc.gov/efiling-help.asp__;!!KNMwiTCp4spf!SRhpUAFozRJuQNbfTz9lxuWZwv- HNktcoygS-cDn0CDGU6B-0QeYJsSq2IJhgahaZ83VsuV7Teg$ or for phone support, call 866-208-3676. Comments and Suggestions can be sent to this email address: mailto:FERCOnlineSupport@Ferc.gov FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION Office of Energy Projects Division of Dam Safety and Inspections San Francisco Regional Office 100 First Street, Suite 2300 San Francisco, CA 94105-3084 (415) 369-3300 Office (415) 369-3322 Facsimile June 9, 2021 In reply refer to: Project No. 619-CA Mr. Jan Nimick, Vice President Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) Mail Code N11E P.O. Box 770000 San Francisco, CA 94177-0001 Re: Grizzly Forebay Dam Phase 2 Investigation Plan Dear Mr. Nimick: This is in response to a letter dated February 11, 2021, from Ms. Teri Smyly that submitted responses to our comments on the Phase 2 work plan to assess the concrete condition at Grizzly Forebay Dam, part of the Bucks Creek Project, FERC Project No. 619.We have reviewed the submittal and our comments have been adequately addressed with the exception as noted below: 1. Based upon the resumes submitted, Mr. Thomas Voss is the only individual with direct field coring experience, although limited, documented in his resume. He is the only one authorized to provide oversight of the on-site drilling activies and must be on-site full-time while this work is being performed. If others are intended to serve in this capacity, you must submit revised resumes that clearly indicate direct field experience oversight and participation. 2. In the Phase 2 Work Plan dated December 6, 2020 on page 6 it is stated that the reservoir level will be maintained at elevation 4,314 feet, which is 2 feet (not 4 feet) below the spillway crest of 4,316 feet. Please verify that the reservoir elevation of 4,314 feet to be maintained during the work is correct. 2 3. Temporary Construction Emergency Action Plan (TCEAP). Revise the TCEAP to include Mr. John Onderdonk, Branch 2 Dam Safety Chief. Provided that the above comment is addressed within 10 days from the date of this letter, PG&E is authorized to proceed with the investigation. Failure to adequately address our comment within 10 days will require a suspension of all work until the comment is addressed. Upon completion of the investigation, please notify this office and submit a brief report summarizing the investigation and include testing results and any unusual conditions or items that are important to document for future reference. PG&E is responsible for ensuring completion of any necessary environmental coordination with resource agencies as well as the procurement of any federal, state, or local permits required for the work. We appreciate your continued cooperation in this aspect of the Commissio safety program. If you have any questions, please contact Mr. Edgar Salire at (415) 369- 3369. Sincerely, Frank L. Blackett, P.E. Regional Engineer cc: Ms. Sharon Tapia, Chief CA Dept. of Water Resources Division of Safety of Dams P.O. Box 942836 Sacramento, CA 94236-0001 From:"FERC eSubscription" Subject:General Correspondence issued in FERC P-803-000 Date:Thursday, June 17, 2021 1:55:05 PM .ATTENTION: This message originated from outside Butte County. Please exercise judgment before opening attachments, clicking on links, or replying.. On 6/17/2021, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), Washington D.C., issued this document: Docket(s): P-803-000 Lead Applicant: Pacific Gas and Electric Company Filing Type: General Correspondence Compliance Directives Description: Letter to Pacific Gas and Electric Company providing comments on the Quality Control Inspection Program and other construction documents for the Seepage Weir Replacement Proj at Philbrook Dam, part of the DeSabla-Centerville Proj under P-803. To view the document for this Issuance, click here https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://elibrary.ferc.gov/eLibrary/filelist?accession_num=20210617- 3136__;!!KNMwiTCp4spf!S90Egibh4x-GPEs1TxDcxl3krKtXN2hfHF- h0AqT1oI4r_6fTp9GmiCxhXkKwk6Y1_xMK3j4Mb4$ To modify your subscriptions, click here: https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://ferconline.ferc.gov/eSubscription.aspx__;!!KNMwiTCp4spf!S90Egibh4x- GPEs1TxDcxl3krKtXN2hfHF-h0AqT1oI4r_6fTp9GmiCxhXkKwk6Y1_xM4h_yAYE$ ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Please do not respond to this email. Online help is available here: https://urldefense.com/v3/__http://www.ferc.gov/efiling-help.asp__;!!KNMwiTCp4spf!S90Egibh4x- GPEs1TxDcxl3krKtXN2hfHF-h0AqT1oI4r_6fTp9GmiCxhXkKwk6Y1_xMlsaIr3w$ or for phone support, call 866-208-3676. Comments and Suggestions can be sent to this email address: mailto:FERCOnlineSupport@Ferc.gov FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION Office of Energy Projects Division of Dam Safety and Inspections San Francisco Regional Office 100 First Street, Suite 2300 San Francisco, CA 94105-3084 (415) 369-3300 Office (415) 369-3322 Facsimile June 17, 2021 In reply refer to: Project No. 803-CA Mr. Jan Nimick, Vice President Pacific Gas and Electric Company Mail Code: N11E PO Box 770000 San Francisco, CA 94177-0001 Re: Seepage Weir Replacement Project at Philbrook Dam Dear Mr. Nimick: This is in response to a letter dated January 26, 2021 from Mr. David Ritzman that submitted and other construction documents for the Seepage Weir Replacement Project at Philbrook Dam, which is part of the DeSabla-Centerville Project, FERC No. 803. and have the following comments: 1. Note G5.B on Drawing No. 3105164 indicates that the top six inches of the subgrade as well as any fill that is placed will be compacted to 90 percent relative compaction based on the Modified Proctor test (ASTM D 1557). This is not a very high compaction standard, particularly for fill that will be placed at the downstream toe of an embankment dam. We suggest that PG&E consider requiring a higher compaction standard for this project, particularly for any imported granular fill that will be placed at the downstream toe. 2. Although this project involves limited excavating at the downstream toe of an embankment dam, at the location of an active seep, indicate how water will be controlled on the project or what would be done if increased seepage were to be observed during the excavation work or a similar potential dam safety incid did not include a Temporary Construction Emergency Action Plan (TCEAP). Please provide an appropriately scaled TCEAP that clearly outlines how the 2 workers will be notified to evacuate the area in the event of an emergency, including worker evacuation routes and an emergency call list. The TCEAP should also provide a provision to activate the full project EAP if necessary. Clearly explain how any potential dam safety risks related to the existing seepage at the toe will be mitigated against during construction. Among other measures, it may be prudent for PG&E to consider stockpiling material on site in advance of the project which could be used if the excavation work caused the existing seepage conditions at the dam to worsen. 3. Appendix B of the QCIP indicates that quality assurance efforts for the project will include a variety of concrete and aggregate tests; submittal does not indicate what the acceptance criteria for most of these tests will be. Please clarify the concrete and aggregate acceptance criteria on this project and revise the QCIP, drawings, and/or specifications as appropriate. 4. Both Appendix B of the QCIP and the specifications included at the end of -specific. In fact, many of the inspection items and specification sections do not appear to be applicable to this project at all. Please revise Appendix B of the QCIP and the specifications as appropriate so that they are specific and applicable to this project. 5. throughout the QCIP; however, there mittal for individuals who are not shown in either the Appendix A Pre-Job Planning Template or the Appendix C Project Organization Chart. Thus, it is unclear what these résumés were included. Please update Appendices A and C to indicate who the field inspectors will be for this project, and provide their résumés for our January 26, 2021 submittal. Please provide a revised submittal that addresses our comments within 45 days of the date of this letter. You must obtain our authorization prior to beginning work on this project. https://www.ferc.gov/ferc-online/overview. For all Dam Safety and Public Safety Documents, select Hydro: Regional Office and San Francisco Regional Office from the eFiling menu. The cover page of the filing must indicate that the material was eFiled. For assistance with eFiling, contact FERC Online Support at FERCOnlineSupport@ferc.gov, (866) 208-3676 (toll free), or (202) 502-8659 (TTY). 3 We appreciate your continued cooperatio safety program. If you have questions, please contact Mr. Michael Vail at (415) 369-3346. Sincerely, Frank L. Blackett, P.E. Regional Engineer cc: Ms. Sharon Tapia, Chief CA Dept. of Water Resources Division of Safety of Dams P.O. Box 942836 Sacramento, CA 94236-0001 From:"FERC eSubscription" Subject:General Correspondence issued in FERC P-2088-000 Date:Thursday, June 17, 2021 5:15:38 AM .ATTENTION: This message originated from outside Butte County. Please exercise judgment before opening attachments, clicking on links, or replying.. On 6/16/2021, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), Washington D.C., issued this document: Docket(s): P-2088-000 Lead Applicant: South Feather Water and Power Agency Filing Type: General Correspondence Description: Letter responding to South Feather Water and Power Agency's 08/11/2020 letter submitting a notification of the scheduled dewatering of penstocks at the Woodleaf Powerhouse et al, part of the South Feather Water Power Proj., P-2088. To view the document for this Issuance, click here https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://elibrary.ferc.gov/eLibrary/filelist?accession_num=20210616- 3070__;!!KNMwiTCp4spf!R1Wl-II5NuN9eNYK- 1BUZ16FPmZbXgoYHXxwVVDqStuKNLasJApCK5Nib5YKTd5jxbhRs2-MBb4$ To modify your subscriptions, click here: https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://ferconline.ferc.gov/eSubscription.aspx__;!!KNMwiTCp4spf!R1Wl- II5NuN9eNYK-1BUZ16FPmZbXgoYHXxwVVDqStuKNLasJApCK5Nib5YKTd5jxbhRVbAT350$ ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Please do not respond to this email. Online help is available here: https://urldefense.com/v3/__http://www.ferc.gov/efiling-help.asp__;!!KNMwiTCp4spf!R1Wl-II5NuN9eNYK- 1BUZ16FPmZbXgoYHXxwVVDqStuKNLasJApCK5Nib5YKTd5jxbhRWyVt0II$ or for phone support, call 866-208-3676. Comments and Suggestions can be sent to this email address: mailto:FERCOnlineSupport@Ferc.gov FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION Office of Energy Projects Division of Dam Safety and Inspections San Francisco Regional Office 100 First Street, Suite 2300 San Francisco, CA 94105-3084 (415) 369-3300 Office (415) 369-3322 Facsimile June 16, 2021 In reply refer to: Project No. 2088-CA Mr. Rath Moseley General Manager South Feather Water and Power Agency 2310 Oro-Quincy Highway Oroville, CA 95965 Re: Scheduled Dewatering of Project Penstocks Dear Mr. Moseley: This is in response to a letter from Ms. Kristen McKillop dated August 11, 2020 that submitted a notification of the scheduled dewatering of penstocks at the Woodleaf, Forbestown, Sly Creek, and Kelly Ridge Powerhouses, which are part of the South Feather Water Power Project, FERC No. 2088. We have reviewed the submittal and we have no comments. dam safety program. If you have any questions, please contact Mr. Ricardo Galdamez at (415) 369-3310. Sincerely, Frank L. Blackett, P.E. Regional Engineer From:"FERC eSubscription" Subject:Government Agency Submittal submitted in FERC P-619-000 by California State Historic Perservation Office,et al. Date:Thursday, June 17, 2021 5:15:47 AM .ATTENTION: This message originated from outside Butte County. Please exercise judgment before opening attachments, clicking on links, or replying.. On 6/17/2021, the following Filing was submitted to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), Washington D.C.: Filer: California State Historic Perservation Office California Office of Historic Preservation (as Agent) Docket(s): P-619-000 Lead Applicant: Pacific Gas and Electric Company Filing Type: Government Agency Submittal Description: Comments of The State of California State Historic Preservation Office under P-619. To view the document for this Filing, click here https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://elibrary.ferc.gov/eLibrary/filelist?accession_num=20210617- 5009__;!!KNMwiTCp4spf!RSrlEUnhVjfphZKf-69G7n43FLafKhs5N- uoWVFIVabao6bIPK_XhUwfLCcoJprVbYwBkblh35U$ To modify your subscriptions, click here: https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://ferconline.ferc.gov/eSubscription.aspx__;!!KNMwiTCp4spf!RSrlEUnhVjfphZKf- 69G7n43FLafKhs5N-uoWVFIVabao6bIPK_XhUwfLCcoJprVbYwBLoBp1HI$ ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Please do not respond to this email. Online help is available here: https://urldefense.com/v3/__http://www.ferc.gov/efiling-help.asp__;!!KNMwiTCp4spf!RSrlEUnhVjfphZKf- 69G7n43FLafKhs5N-uoWVFIVabao6bIPK_XhUwfLCcoJprVbYwBKkJqxZA$ or for phone support, call 866-208-3676. State of California Natural Resources Agency Gavin Newsom, Governor DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION Armando Quintero, Director OFFICE OF HISTORIC PRESERVATION Julianne Polanco, State Historic Preservation Officer 1725 23rd Street, Suite 100, Sacramento, CA 95816-7100 Telephone: (916) 445-7000 FAX: (916) 445-7053 calshpo.ohp@parks.ca.gov www.ohp.parks.ca.gov June 16, 2021 In reply refer to: FERC_2019_0826_001 Mr. James Nelson Senior Cultural Resources Specialist Environmental Management-Generation 350 Salem Street Chico, CA 95828-5331 VIA EMAIL/FERC E-File RE: Section 106 Consultation for the Lower Bucks Lake Dam Carpi-Liner ProjectFinding of Effects Dear Mr. Nelson, The State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO) received your consultation letter on February 25, 2021, pursuant to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 (54 U.S.C. § 300101), as amended, and its implementing regulation found at 36 CFR 800. Specifically, the Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) is continuing consultation with the SHPO regarding the above referenced project pursuant to the Section 106 Programmatic Agreement Between the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and the California State Historic Preservation Officer Regarding Installation of a Carpi-Liner on the Lower Bucks Lake Dam, Bucks Creek Hydroelectric System FERC Number 619-167 (PA). PG&E was designated as the non-federal representative for Section 106 consultation for the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and consults on their behalf. The PA was necessary because full identification of historic properties and an assessmentof effects to them within portions of the undertaking Area of Potential Effects (APE) was not possible at the time that FERC approved the project; the PA executed on April 30, 2020. During project implementation, archaeological pedestrian survey was conducted within areas of the APE that were previously not accessible; seven new cultural resources were identified and recorded as stipulated in the PA. Environmentally Sensitive Area exclusion zones were identified for all known and newly recorded cultural resources, monitored, and protected with exclusionary fencing during construction activities, also as stipulated by the PA. No effects to resources occurred during project implementation. At this time, PG&E on behalf of the FERC and pursuant to PA Stipulation III.A.1, seeks SHPO comments on its determination that the undertaking caused no adverse effects to historic properties. PG&E provided the following document in support of this finding: Mr. James NelsonFERC_2019_0826_001 June 16, 2021 Page 2of 2 Lower Bucks Lake Dam Carpi-Liner Project Cultural Resources Findings Report- Phase III, Plumas County, California (Rincon Consultants, November 2020) Following review of your submittal, I do not object to the finding of no adverse effects to historic properties pursuant to PA Stipulation III.A.1 If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Brendon Greenaway at (916) 445-7036 or Brendon.Greenaway@parks.ca.gov. Sincerely, Julianne Polanco State Historic Preservation Officer From:"FERC eSubscription" Subject:Government Agency Submittal submitted in FERC P-2107-000 by California State Historic Perservation Office,et al. Date:Wednesday, June 16, 2021 5:35:29 AM .ATTENTION: This message originated from outside Butte County. Please exercise judgment before opening attachments, clicking on links, or replying.. On 6/16/2021, the following Filing was submitted to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), Washington D.C.: Filer: California State Historic Perservation Office California Office of Historic Preservation (as Agent) Docket(s): P-2107-000 Lead Applicant: Pacific Gas and Electric Company Filing Type: Government Agency Submittal Description: Comments of the State of California State Historic Preservation Office under P-2107. To view the document for this Filing, click here https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://elibrary.ferc.gov/eLibrary/filelist?accession_num=20210616- 5014__;!!KNMwiTCp4spf!SYbuOL2hPFutFXrAlTGES_VuVgbkodQkvqpyS6zCAyzn5dwrNJpH_73bKwzwCQecb3qF_c4wu0U$ To modify your subscriptions, click here: https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://ferconline.ferc.gov/eSubscription.aspx__;!!KNMwiTCp4spf!SYbuOL2hPFutFXrAlTGES_VuVgbkodQkvqpyS6zCAyzn5dwrNJpH_73bKwzwCQecb3qFxhf3hp8$ ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Please do not respond to this email. Online help is available here: https://urldefense.com/v3/__http://www.ferc.gov/efiling-help.asp__;!!KNMwiTCp4spf!SYbuOL2hPFutFXrAlTGES_VuVgbkodQkvqpyS6zCAyzn5dwrNJpH_73bKwzwCQecb3qFRk8tKr8$ or for phone support, call 866-208-3676. State of California Natural Resources Agency Gavin Newsom, Governor DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION Armando Quintero, Director OFFICE OF HISTORIC PRESERVATION Julianne Polanco, State Historic Preservation Officer 1725 23rd Street, Suite 100, Sacramento, CA 95816-7100 Telephone: (916) 445-7000 FAX: (916) 445-7053 calshpo.ohp@parks.ca.gov www.ohp.parks.ca.gov June 15, 2021 In reply refer to: FERC_2019_0521_001 Ms. Kathleen Forrest Senior Cultural Resources Specialist Environmental Management 2730 Gateway Oaks, Suite 220 Sacramento, CA 95833 VIA EMAIL/FERC E-File RE: Section 106 Consultation for ID Efforts for the POE Hydroelectric Project, (FERC No. 2107) Butte County, California Dear Ms. Forrest, The State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO) received your consultation letter on May 12, 2021, pursuant to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 (54 U.S.C. § 300101), as amended, and its implementing regulation found at 36 CFR § 800. The Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) is continuing consultation with the SHPO regarding the above referenced project. PG&E has been designated (by letter dated May 6, 2019) as the non-federal representative for Section 106 consultation for the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and consults on their behalf. The POE Hydroelectric Project is located in the North Fork Feather River Basin in Butte County, California. PG&E is in the process of drafting a Historic Properties Management Plan and at this time, seeks SHPO comments on the adequacy of its efforts to identify archaeological historic properties within the Area of Potential Effects (APE) of the FERC project boundary. Previous consultation was conducted regarding the APE by my letter dated July 2, 2019. In that letter I agreed that the 1,269.7-acre APE was sufficiently defined. By letter dated May 5, 2020, I commented on the historic resources inventory and evaluation report for built environment resources. Inventory of the APE for archaeological resources included background research, records review and intensive pedestrian survey of 308.5 acres. The remaining 961.2 acres within the APE were not surveyed due to inundation or safety issues. 30 archaeological sites are present within the APE, including 9 recently identified. The identified archaeological resources were not evaluated at this time but will be if necessary, during implementation of the HPMP. No comments have been received to date during ongoing consultation with Native American Indian Tribes. Ms. Kathleen ForrestFERC_2019_0521_001 June 15, 2021 Page 2of 2 Pursuant to 36 CFR § 800.4, PG&E, on behalf of the FERC seek SHPO comments that its efforts to identify historic properties are adequate and provided the following document in support of its finding: Pacific Gas and Electric Company POE Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 2107 Prehistoric and Historic Archaeological Resources Inventory Report (Pacific Gas and Electric Company, September 2020) Following review of your submittal, I offer the following comments: Pursuant to 36 CFR § 800.4, I do not object to the efforts made thus far to identify historic properties within the APE; I find them to be reasonable and in good faith. However, as no archaeological sites have been evaluated yet for their historic significance pursuant to 36 CFR § 800.4(c)(1), I withhold final comments on the level of effort to identify historic properties pursuant to 36 CFR § 800.4(b)(1) until decision on an evaluation strategy has been consulted on. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Brendon Greenaway at (916) 445-7036 or Brendon.Greenaway@parks.ca.gov. Sincerely, Julianne Polanco State Historic Preservation Officer From:"FERC eSubscription" Subject:Internal Transmittal Memo issued in FERC P-619-164 Date:Thursday, June 17, 2021 10:35:24 AM .ATTENTION: This message originated from outside Butte County. Please exercise judgment before opening attachments, clicking on links, or replying.. On 6/17/2021, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), Washington D.C., issued this document: Docket(s): P-619-164 Lead Applicant: Pacific Gas and Electric Company Filing Type: Internal Transmittal Memo Description: Memo dated 06/17/2021 forwarding U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's updated list of Threatened, Endangered, Candidate, and Proposed Species Generated by ECOS-IPaC Website for theBucks Creek Hydroelectric Project under P-619. To view the document for this Issuance, click here https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://elibrary.ferc.gov/eLibrary/filelist?accession_num=20210617- 3058__;!!KNMwiTCp4spf!Wx7bAJb-PBasV0NzkIbO2BXtK4HQqq-cjlTja9mFRgEIwdNVzpm- mmtbq5VpWmuNntTdK7fjug8$ To modify your subscriptions, click here: https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://ferconline.ferc.gov/eSubscription.aspx__;!!KNMwiTCp4spf!Wx7bAJb- PBasV0NzkIbO2BXtK4HQqq-cjlTja9mFRgEIwdNVzpm-mmtbq5VpWmuNntTdAj1g6vo$ ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Please do not respond to this email. Online help is available here: https://urldefense.com/v3/__http://www.ferc.gov/efiling-help.asp__;!!KNMwiTCp4spf!Wx7bAJb- PBasV0NzkIbO2BXtK4HQqq-cjlTja9mFRgEIwdNVzpm-mmtbq5VpWmuNntTd8yG87no$ or for phone support, call 866-208-3676. Comments and Suggestions can be sent to this email address: mailto:FERCOnlineSupport@Ferc.gov FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION MEMORANDUM DATE: June 17, 2021 FROM: Quinn Emmering, Wildlife Biologist Division of Hydropower Licensing Office of Energy Projects TO: Public Files for the Bucks Creek Hydroelectric Project (P-619-164) SUBJECT: List of Threatened, Endangered, Candidate, and Proposed Species Generated by ECOS-IPaC Website On June 17, 2021, Commission staff accessed the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's ECOS-IPaC website (https://ecos.fws.gov/ipac/) to generate an official list of federally threatened, endangered, candidate, and proposed species, and designated or proposed critical habitats that may be affected by the relicensing of the Bucks Creek Hydroelectric Project. The existing project is located on Bucks, Grizzly, and Milk Ranch Creeks in Plumas County, California, in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. A copy of the list is attached. 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Efqbsunfou!pg!Dpnnfsdf/ Tff!uif!#Dsjujdbm!ibcjubut#!tfdujpo!cfmpx!gps!uiptf!dsjujdbm!ibcjubut!uibu!mjf!xipmmz!ps!qbsujbmmz! xjuijo!zpvs!qspkfdu!bsfb!voefs!uijt!pggjdf(t!kvsjtejdujpo/!Qmfbtf!dpoubdu!uif!eftjhobufe!GXT!pggjdf! jg!zpv!ibwf!rvftujpot/ 2/OPBB!Gjtifsjft-!bmtp!lopxo!bt!uif!Obujpobm!Nbsjof!Gjtifsjft!Tfswjdf!)ONGT*-!jt!bo! pggjdf!pg!uif!Obujpobm!Pdfbojd!boe!Bunptqifsjd!Benjojtusbujpo!xjuijo!uif!Efqbsunfou!pg! Dpnnfsdf/ Bnqijcjbot OBNFTUBUVT Dbmjgpsojb!Sfe.mfhhfe!Gsph!Sbob!esbzupojj Uisfbufofe Uifsf!jt!gjobm!dsjujdbm!ibcjubu!gps!uijt!tqfdjft/!Uif!mpdbujpo!pg!uif!dsjujdbm!ibcjubu!jt!opu!bwbjmbcmf/ Tqfdjft!qspgjmf;!iuuqt;00fdpt/gxt/hpw0fdq0tqfdjft039:2 Tjfssb!Ofwbeb!Zfmmpx.mfhhfe!Gsph!Sbob!tjfssbf Foebohfsfe Uifsf!jt!gjobm!dsjujdbm!ibcjubu!gps!uijt!tqfdjft/!Zpvs!mpdbujpo!pwfsmbqt!uif!dsjujdbm!ibcjubu/ Tqfdjft!qspgjmf;!iuuqt;00fdpt/gxt/hpw0fdq0tqfdjft0:63: Gjtift OBNFTUBUVT Efmub!Tnfmu!Izqpnftvt!usbotqbdjgjdvt Uisfbufofe Uifsf!jt!gjobm!dsjujdbm!ibcjubu!gps!uijt!tqfdjft/!Uif!mpdbujpo!pg!uif!dsjujdbm!ibcjubu!jt!opu!bwbjmbcmf/ Tqfdjft!qspgjmf;!iuuqt;00fdpt/gxt/hpw0fdq0tqfdjft0432 Dsjujdbm!ibcjubut Uifsf!jt!2!dsjujdbm!ibcjubu!xipmmz!ps!qbsujbmmz!xjuijo!zpvs!qspkfdu!bsfb!voefs!uijt!pggjdf(t! kvsjtejdujpo/ OBNFTUBUVT Tjfssb!Ofwbeb!Zfmmpx.mfhhfe!Gsph!Sbob!tjfssbf Gjobm iuuqt;00fdpt/gxt/hpw0fdq0tqfdjft0:63:$dsjuibc From:"FERC eSubscription" Subject:Part 12 Consultant Safety Inspection Reports submitted in FERC P-619-000 by Pacific Gas and Electric Company,et al. Date:Friday, June 11, 2021 12:26:11 PM .ATTENTION: This message originated from outside Butte County. Please exercise judgment before opening attachments, clicking on links, or replying.. On 6/11/2021, the following Filing was submitted to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), Washington D.C.: Filer: Pacific Gas and Electric Company No Organization Found (as Agent) Docket(s): P-619-000 Lead Applicant: Pacific Gas and Electric Company Filing Type: Part 12 Consultant Safety Inspection Reports Description: Pacific Gas and Electric Company's 10th P12D Inspection Report and 2015 FERC Dam Safety Inspection, Response to Recommendations for Bucks Creek Hydroelectric Project under P-619. To view the document for this Filing, click here https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://elibrary.ferc.gov/eLibrary/filelist?accession_num=20210611- 5093__;!!KNMwiTCp4spf!WzTH0HOzu5NoXW4-gUNaGfvZ- JpOP5jtx770he6x0rUWUi8ZgX53XASG35vv6GZ7xdOhGOUj9Bk$ To modify your subscriptions, click here: https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://ferconline.ferc.gov/eSubscription.aspx__;!!KNMwiTCp4spf!WzTH0HOzu5NoXW4- gUNaGfvZ-JpOP5jtx770he6x0rUWUi8ZgX53XASG35vv6GZ7xdOhYBoA3P0$ ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Please do not respond to this email. Online help is available here: https://urldefense.com/v3/__http://www.ferc.gov/efiling-help.asp__;!!KNMwiTCp4spf!WzTH0HOzu5NoXW4- gUNaGfvZ-JpOP5jtx770he6x0rUWUi8ZgX53XASG35vv6GZ7xdOhqTWQeiM$ or for phone support, call 866-208-3676. 245 Market Street tƚǞĻƩ DĻƓĻƩğƷźƚƓ San Francisco, CA 94105 Mailing Address: Mail Code N11D P.O. Box 770000 San Francisco, CA 94177 June 11, 2021 Via Electronic Submittal (E-file) Mr. Frank L. Blackett P.E., Regional Engineer Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Division of Dam Safety and Inspections San Francisco Regional Office 100 First Street, Suite 2300 San Francisco, CA 94105-3084 RE: Bucks Creek Hydroelectric Project, FERC No. 619-CA Bucks Storage Dam, NATDAM CA00332 10th Part 12D Inspection Report and 2015 FERC Dam Safety Inspection Response to Recommendations ENCLOSURES CONTAIN CUI//CEII DO NOT RELEASE Dear Mr. Blackett: This letter reports on the completion of efforts to address follow-up spillway maintenance items from the 10th 5-year Part 12D safety inspection and the 2015 annual Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) dam safety inspection of Bucks Storage Dam, which is part of PG&E Bucks Creek Hydroelectric Project, FERC No. 619. The two inspections were performed concurrently during the week of August 3, 2015. Spillway maintenance items identified during the inspections, which include cleaning and inspecting weep holes and patching deteriorated concrete within the spillway chute, are the subject of Recommendation 8 (R-8) in the 10th Part 12D safety inspection report (dated October 2015) and maintenance action items M.1 through M.4 in follow-up letter (dated November 19, 2015). PG&E provided its most recent status update regarding R-8 and M.1 through M.4 in a letter to your office dated August 29, 2017. address R-8 and M.1 through M.4 is enclosed with this letter (Enclosure 1). As described in the summary, PG&E conducted investigations and performed maintenance repairs within the Bucks Storage Dam spillway chute in 2018, 2019, and 2020 as part of portfolio-level spillway assessment and improvement program (SAIP), which was established after the 2017 Oroville Dam spillway incident. Results of the investigations and information pertaining to the spillway repairs at Bucks Storage Dam are presented in a report prepared by Gannett Fleming and dated May 2021. A copy of the report is enclosed Based on the information provided in the report, PG&E believes that the investigation and Mr. Frank Blackett, P.E. Regional Engineer June 11, 2021 Page 2 maintenance work completed in 2018, 2019, and 2020 satisfactorily addresses R-8 and M.1 through M.4. Ongoing shelter-in-place orders issued by the State of California in response to the COVID-19 pandemic require that nonessential PG&E staff work remotely, and hard copy filings are not practical at this time. If FERC requires hard copies of this letter and/or enclosures, please contact the license coordinator identified below. If necessary, hard copies will be sent after the shelter-in-place restrictions have been lifted and PG&E staff have returned to their normal work locations. dam safety engineer, Mr. Ben Fontana, at (530) 762-9459. For general questions, please Ms. Jamie Visinoni, at (530) 215-6676. Sincerely, David L. Ritzman, P.E., G.E. Chief Dam Safety Engineer Enclosures: CUI//CEII DO NOT RELEASE 1. Update on recommendations 2. Bucks Storage Dam Spillway Investigation and Repairs 2018-2020, Final Report, dated May 2021 From:"FERC eSubscription" Subject:Project Operations Compliance Report submitted in FERC P-619-000 by Pacific Gas and Electric Company,et al. Date:Thursday, June 10, 2021 11:25:06 AM .ATTENTION: This message originated from outside Butte County. Please exercise judgment before opening attachments, clicking on links, or replying.. On 6/10/2021, the following Filing was submitted to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), Washington D.C.: Filer: Pacific Gas and Electric Company No Organization Found (as Agent) Docket(s): P-619-000 Lead Applicant: Pacific Gas and Electric Company Filing Type: Project Operations Compliance Report Description: Pacific Gas and Electric Company submits Annual United States Forest Service Consultation 2020 under P-619 To view the document for this Filing, click here https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://elibrary.ferc.gov/eLibrary/filelist?accession_num=20210610- 5088__;!!KNMwiTCp4spf!ULAji40ZzfIFDqKMpSFdwR9- iIDUDLfCG8ZJ_PaMRorqrpcbNCsd5kPuAGKLXTtMYo8CrMGYeD8$ To modify your subscriptions, click here: https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://ferconline.ferc.gov/eSubscription.aspx__;!!KNMwiTCp4spf!ULAji40ZzfIFDqKMpSFdwR9- iIDUDLfCG8ZJ_PaMRorqrpcbNCsd5kPuAGKLXTtMYo8CQLbroxw$ ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Please do not respond to this email. Online help is available here: https://urldefense.com/v3/__http://www.ferc.gov/efiling-help.asp__;!!KNMwiTCp4spf!ULAji40ZzfIFDqKMpSFdwR9- iIDUDLfCG8ZJ_PaMRorqrpcbNCsd5kPuAGKLXTtMYo8CF1dCM90$ or for phone support, call 866-208-3676. tƚǞĻƩ DĻƓĻƩğƷźƚƓ 245 Market Street San Francisco, CA 94105 Mailing Address: Mail Code N11D P.O. Box 770000 San Francisco, CA 94177 June 10, 2021 Via Electronic Submittal (E-File) Ms. Kimberly D. Bose, Secretary Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Division of Hydropower Administration and Compliance 888 First Street, NE Washington, DC 20426 RE: Bucks Creek Hydroelectric Project, FERC No. 619-CA Article 101 Annual United States Forest Service Consultation 2020 Dear Secretary Bose: Article 101 of Pacific Gas and Electric Companys (PG&E) Bucks Creek Hydroelectric Project, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) License No. 619 (Project) requires that the licensee consult annually with the United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service (Forest Service) regarding measures needed to ensure protection and development of the natural resource values of the Project area. Within two months of the meeting, the licensee is also required to file a report of such consultation with FERC. On April 14, 2020, PG&E met with the Forest Service to summarize work conducted during 2020 and to discuss upcoming work to be conducted during the 2021 calendar year for both the Bucks Creek and Rock Creek-Cresta (FERC No. 1962) Projects. Comments and edits to the Article 101 Report were made during the meeting and a draft-final was emailed to Forest Service on April 16, 2021; but to date, no additional comments have been received. If you have any questions, please call Senior License Coordinator, Jamie Visinoni, at (530) 215-6676. Sincerely, Teri Smyly Manager, FERC and DSOD Compliance Enclosure: (2020 Bucks Article 101 Annual Report) cc: via email Amy Lind, USFS - amy.lind@usda.gov Leslie Edlund, USFS - leslie.edlund@usda.gov Damon Beck, City of Santa Clara - DBeck@SantaClaraCA.gov Nick Van Haeften, City of Santa Clara - NVanHaeften@SantaClaraCA.gov Steve Hance, City of Santa Clara SHance@SantaClaraca.gov Bucks Creek Project, FERC No. 619 Article 101 Report Summary of Consultation with the Forest Service to Ensure Protection and Utilization of National Forest Resources Activities Conducted in 2020 Annual Meeting on April 14, 2021 with Plans/Actions for 2021 This is a summary of items concerning the protection and development of natural resource values in the Project area or other topics of discussion between the USDA Forest Service, Plumas National Forest (Forest Service), and the Project No. 619 licensees (Pacific Gas & Electric Company \[PG&E\] and the City of Santa Clara). This information is prepared to support discussions under Project No. 619 license Article 101. This report is organized by resource areas. Each area includes a summary of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) license articles, background information as appropriate, and the status of that article. The actions are determined in the consultation meeting. The following list identifies the resource areas: 1. Wildlife Resources 2. Rare, Threatened, Endangered and Special Status Species 3. Water Resources 4. Fish and Biological Aquatic Resources 5. River Sediment Management 6. Recreation and Land Use 7. Transportation and Road Use 8. Cultural Resource 9. Botanical Resources 10. Miscellaneous Subjects 1. Wildlife Resources Article 103 Bald Eagle Management Plan. Bald Eagle monitoring is conducted under the plan approved by FERC on 6/30/2006. Status - Bald Eagle survey results and Bald Eagle Nesting Territory Survey Forms were filed with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) via email on 8/21/2020 and with the Forest Service via email on 8/28/2020. Actions 2021: Annual surveys will be conducted in 2021. Article 103 Haskins Valley/Willow Flycatcher Protection Plan. The Habitat and Mitigation Plan for the Willow Flycatcher and Haskins Valley approved by FERC on 6/30/2006. Status - Monitoring at Haskins Valley was conducted on October 14, 2020, which was later than usual due to the North Complex fire in the area. The 2020 monitoring report was sent to Forest Service on October 27,2020. The Forest Service notified PG&E that they had no comments or recommended changes to the report on December 7, 2020. PG&E finalized the report with the consultation record and submitted it to Forest Service on December 15, 2020. Article 101Report Bucks Creek, FERC Project 619 April 14, 2021 Annual Forest Service Meeting Actions 2021: The same sites that were monitored in 2020 will also be monitored in 2021. 2. Rare, Threatened, Endangered and Special Status Species Updates Article 103 Special Status Plants. The 2006 Article 103 filing recommended PG&E consult annually with the Forest Service on possible new sensitive plant species. Status - PG&E will consult with the Forest Service annually on whether any additions have been made in the last year to the Plumas National Fores sensitive plant species. The Forest Service Region 5 Special Animal and Special Plant lists were last updated in 2013. Actions 2021: Consultation April 14, 2021. o Species Legal Status Updates o Sierra Nevada Yellow- Legged Frog (SNYLF) Status - Ongoing. The SNYLF was federally listed as endangered in June of 2014. Critical Habitat has been designated, including portions of the Bucks Creek Project. This listing will result in various project requirements related to maintenance and activities that have the potential to affect the species. A SNYLF Management Plan and a biological assessment have been prepared to address ongoing operations and maintenance activities, specifically vegetation management and pesticide use. On December 23, 2019, the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) issued its BO for the new license. The new license is still in process. o Foothill Yellow- Legged Frog (FYLF) Status Ongoing - A petition to list FYLF under the Federal Endangered Species Act (ESA) was submitted to USFWS on July 11, 2012. On July 1, 2015, USFWS determined that the FYLF may warrant protection under the ESA and launched a full status review. As a result of a lawsuit regarding failure to act on the required 12-month finding period, USFWS has agreed to a schedule for completing the overdue finding, with FYLF listing determination set for 2020. To date (Feb 23, 2021), no determination has been made. In addition, a petition to list the species as threatened under the California ESA was filed December 14, 2016. The California Fish and Game Commission voted to approve the listing during their regularly scheduled meeting December 11, 2019. On February 21, 2020, the Commission adopted the findings, which were noticed on March 10, 2020. o Pacific Fisher Status - Ongoing. In April 2016, the USFWS determined that Pacific fisher is not warranted to be listed as a threatened species. The species no longer has that status under the Federal ESA but remains a candidate for state listing and a Forest Service sensitive species. This status could result in various project requirements related to maintenance and other activities that may have a possible effect on the 2 Article 101Report Bucks Creek, FERC Project 619 April 14, 2021 Annual Forest Service Meeting species. On Nov. 7, 2019, the USFWS issued a revised proposed rule for the West Coast distinct population segment (DPS) of fisher. In this revised proposal, the USFWS proposes to list the DPS as threatened under the ESA and proposes concurrent 4(d) rules. If the proposed rule is adopted, it could result in various project requirements related to maintenance and other activities that may affect Pacific fisher. On May 15, 2020 the USFWS issued a final rule on the listing of Pacific fisher. In this rule, the Service determined that the West Coast Distinct Population Segment (DPS) should be divided into two separate DPS: The Northern California Southern Oregon (NCSO) DPS, and the Southern Sierra Nevada (SSN) DPS. The NCSO DPS is relevant to the Project, occupying areas in the Sierra Nevada and Cascade mountains from the NF Feather River north to the Oregon border. The SSN DPS occurs from the Merced River south to around Bakersfield. The USFWS determined that the NCSO DPS did not meet the definition of an endangered or threatened species. It determined that the SSN DPS did warrant listing as an endangered species and listed it as such in accordance with the ESA. o Western Pond Turtle (WPT) Status - Ongoing. A petition to list the WPT under the Federal ESA was submitted to USFWS July 11, 2012. On April 9, 2015, USFWS determined that the WPT may warrant protection under the ESA and launched a full status review. To this date, no final determination has been issued by USFWS. WPT is a Forest Service sensitive species and a California Species of Special Concern. WPT has not been observed in the project area, and PG&E currently has no data or record of observations. o Bats Status No update. If applicable, update in 2021 summary. Six special status bat species were identified as potentially present in the Project Area during relicensing surveys (Western mastiff bat, Pallid bat, Townsends big eared bat, Spotted bat, Western red bat, Fringed myotis). None are listed under the federal or state ESA. All were listed as California species of special concern, and pallid, Townsends big-eared and fringed myotis bats are Forest Service sensitive species. Townsends big-eared bat is also a candidate for listing under the California ESA. 3. Water Resources o Article 103 Water Quality. License Article 103 required PG&E to consult with the Forest Service, conduct environmental studies and develop environmental mitigation plans. They were submitted to FERC on April 30, 2005. An extensive water quality monitoring program was conducted in 2005 and water reaches within the project were found to be pristine with no concerns for water quality or temperature. PG&E will consult with the Forest Service annually on whether water quality issues arise, and they will be addressed through Article 101. 3 Article 101Report Bucks Creek, FERC Project 619 April 14, 2021 Annual Forest Service Meeting Status - During 2020, when the liner was being installed on Lower Bucks Dam (i.e., the Lower Bucks Dam Geomembrane Project), water quality monitoring, as stipulated in the 401 Certification for the Project, was completed. During the monitoring, turbidity was monitored and reported to the Central Valley Regional Water Quality Control Board. A notice of completion of discharge was filed on December 16, 2020. Actions 2021: None 4. Fish and Biological Aquatic Resources Article 406 Erosion Control. Article 406 specifically relates to construction of the Grizzly Powerhouse Development and the resulting disturbance and mitigation for those specific sites and facilities. Article 406 was meant solely for the Grizzly Powerhouse Development, as is discussed in the 1989 Environmental Assessment for the amendment. Status No further action has taken place under Article 406 since the completion of the Grizzly Powerhouse Development. Actions 2021: No action. 5. River Sediment Management Article 13 Annual Channel Maintenance Flows/ Minimum Streamflow Requirements. The August 1, 2006 Order Modifying and Approving Channel Maintenance Flow Plan provides for certain levels of channel maintenance flows below Lower Bucks Lake and Grizzly Forebay. Status The March 2020 inflow forecast was 2,155,000 acre feet, which initially classified 2020 as a critically dry water year. For Bucks Creek, the Plan includes: 1) an annual spill requirement; and 2) a high spill requirement. In general terms, the maintenance flows may be accomplished by any combination of spill, release, and accretion flows for a duration of at least 12 hours. The annual spill requirement provides a minimum of 50 to 70 cubic feet per second (cfs) every 18 months, and the high spill requirement provides 150 to 245 cfs every 5 years. The last annual spill flow occurred ended January 15, 2020 from Lower Bucks Lake to Bucks Creek. The last high spill event (required every 5 years) with spills in excess of 150cfs occurred ended on December 23, 2019. For Grizzly Creek, the Plan includes only an annual spill requirement. The terms are similar to the maintenance flows for Bucks Creek, with an annual spill requirement providing a minimum of 50 to 70 cfs every 18 months. Due to the current dry water year classification, channel maintenance flows were not 4 Article 101Report Bucks Creek, FERC Project 619 April 14, 2021 Annual Forest Service Meeting required in 2020. However, the spill requirement was met during a natural spill event on December 7-8, 2019. The draft letter report was submitted to the U.S. Forest Service, USFWS, CDFW, and the State Water Resources Control Board for comments by e-mail dated June 24, 2020, no comments were received. Actions 2021: No actions required in 2021 as it is a Critically Dry water year. The next required annual Channel Maintenance Flow for Bucks Creek and Grizzly Creek will be in 2022. The next High Spill event (150-245cfs) will be required in 2025. 6. Recreation and Land Use Article 103 Shoreline Management/Shoreline Erosion Issues. In accordance with FERCs Order Approving Pacific Gas and Electric Com&E) Shoreline Management Plan (SMP) under Article 103 (issued January 9, 2009) for the Bucks Creek Project, PG&E periodically reviews the adequacy of the SMP in consultation with the Forest Service, USFWS, CDFW, Plumas County Department of Public Works (PCDPW), Plumas Count, and Bucks Lake Homeowners Association. Shoreline Management Plan: FERC guidelines require that Licensees conduct an adequacy review of their SMPs every 5 to 10 years. PG&E conducted an adequacy review of the 2007 SMP in 2014 and determined it was adequate as written for full compliance with applicable FERC license requirements for the Project (filed November 6, 2014, with FERC). FERC acknowrt was filed in accordance with License Article 103 and directed Licensees to file the next 5-year adequacy report by January 31, 2019. In the course of completing relicensing studies and consulting with stakeholders to prepare the Project application to FERC, the Licensees determined it was necessary to revise the 2007 SMP. On December 28, 2018, PG&E requested an extension to file the revised SMP by July 31, 2019. PG&E submitted a draft SMP to many interested stakeholders including the Forest Service, USFWS, CDFW, PCDPW, Pluepartment, Indian tribes, and Bucks Lake Homeowners Association on February 14, 2019 for their review. In meetings held April 16 and 17, 2019, PG&E consulted with agencies, Indian tribes, Native American interest groups, recreation residents and other stakeholders about the outline and content of the SMP. The SMP was filed with FERC on July 26, 2019. Subsequent to that filing, PG&E received additional comments from the Forest Service, and after further consultation with the Forest Service, PG&E addressed the comments and revised the 2019 SMP and it was re- filed with FERC on September 19, 2019. Shoreline Management Plan (SMP) Inspection and Enforcement: After the 2014 Adequacy Review, PG&E conducted baseline assessments of the Project shoreline and water surface in summer of 2015 and 2016 respectively. As of that baseline inspection, all docks are under permit. 33 permits on National Forest System 5 Article 101Report Bucks Creek, FERC Project 619 April 14, 2021 Annual Forest Service Meeting lands, 57 on PG&E lands. One of the permits on Forest Service lands is at West End Cove for a community dock for the use of four cabin owners. PG&E and the Forest Service had been actively engaged with the management of the West End Cove prior to the 2014 Adequacy Review. PG&E and Forest Service have offered the community dock residents a mutually acceptable solution regarding the West End Cove dock. The Forest Service sent the offer (Forest Service letter dated Feb 27, 2015) to the group on March 2, 2015. The group has not altered the dock configurations from the status quo in the last several seasons, so it is assumed that the group is keeping the status quo option. Forest Service will also be working with the cabin owners in this area to eliminate the storage of personal property (boats and other recreation related items) on the shoreline. Other issues identified during the 2015-2016 baseline inspections include unpermitted structures, prohibited activities, and the placement of unauthorized temporary buoys. Those deficiencies/discrepancies with the SMP were noted and a table was developed to track private use of the shoreline for both PG&E and Forest Service tenants as well as updated dock and buoy management information. The inspections conducted in 2015 and 2016 will serve as a complete baseline to be reviewed and updated yearly. The inspection was repeated in 2017 and subsequent years, with all data recorded in the above noted table. Status In summer of 2020 (July 22-23), PG&E patrolled both the PG&E and Forest Service residential lots by boat (and land as needed) to inspect and document current shoreline conditions and check for compliance with the current SMP; residential docks and buoys were tagged/re-tagged as necessary. PG&E provided the Forest Service, on August 18 (via email), with a list of Forest Service lots that have SMP compliance issues for Forest Service to address with their tenants. PG&E has or will do the same with PG&E tenants and PG&E Land Agents will enforce the SMP and associated Residential Rules and Regulations with those PG&E Tenants found to be out of compliance. These issues will be discussed yearly with the Forest Service. Actions 2021: PG&E awaiting FERC approval of the 2019 Shoreline Management Plan. PG&E plans to conduct annual shoreline inspections in July or August 2021. Articles 103 Recreation. License Article 103 required PG&E to consult with the Forest Service, conduct environmental studies and develop environmental mitigation plans. FERC concurred with PG&E recreation enhancement recommendations in 2006. PG&E will consult with the Forest Service annually on recreation issues that arise, and they will be addressed through Article 101. Status: 2020 Recreation Facility Closures due to COVID-19 and Wildfire Evacuations: PG&E and Forest Service operated recreation facilities in the Bucks Lake 6 Article 101Report Bucks Creek, FERC Project 619 April 14, 2021 Annual Forest Service Meeting Recreation Area were opened late and at limited capacities due to State of California Governors Order set in place to protect against the COVID-19 pandemic. PG&E operated facilities were opened to the public in early July, at reduced capacities (campground) in adherence with State and local Plumas County Heath requirements. Report of recreation opening delays were provided to FERC on April 10, 2020. These same Bucks Lake Area Recreation Facilities were closed early in the fall, around the first week of September due to wildfire evacuation warnings and Orders issue by Plumas County Sheriff Department and the Forest Service. A report on early recreation facility closure was provided to FERC on September 10, 2020. Existing Recreation Facility Maintenance PG&E and the Forest Service had several discussions and email correspondence focused on existing recreation facility concerns since 2018. Below are status updates on open recreation facility concerns from previous Article 101 Meetings: Sandy Point Boat Dock 2018 - Given that this is the only public dock on the reservoir, PG&E proposed to move forward with funding the repair of the boat ramp courtesy dock at Sandy Point. Update - PG&E was unable to finalize the contract with a local contractor due to contractor safety requirements. In 2019, PG&E found a qualified contractor that could perform the work in compliance with contractor safety requirements. The contract to support this work was executed in January 2020 and the courtesy dock has been ordered. The dock replacement work took place on October 13, 2020. The dock will be adjusted and maintained seasonally by PG&E (under contract) in 2021 and beyond. Lower Bucks Day Use Area (DUA) Road/Parking Lot 2018 - PG&E planned to visit the site as soon as it was accessible in 2018 to assess a cost effective and reasonable solution to halt erosion caused by inadequate drainage and preclude unauthorized vehicle access to the shore. An invitation will also be extended to the Forest Service for this site visit. Pending that assessment, PG&E proposed to commit a couple days of labor to resolve immediate issues at the site but requested the Forest Service provide any materials needed for the work. Any plan to improve the site will attempt to utilize existing materials, such as the use of hazard tree removals as vehicle barriers and to take into consideration future improvements envisioned for the site in a new license so that efforts are not duplicated. PG&E met with Forest Service staff to discuss improvements at the Lower Bucks DUA in late May 2018. Email correspondence followed but ultimately a repair plan was not settled upon 7 Article 101Report Bucks Creek, FERC Project 619 April 14, 2021 Annual Forest Service Meeting in 2018. The Forest Service brought in truckloads of gravel to address some of the areas along the road and parking lot that had eroded away. Additional repairs to Lower Bucks DUA Road were planned for 2020 in conjunction with the Lower Bucks Dam Repair and Grizzly Subsurface Debris removal projects slated for summer 2020. Update Repairs to Lower Bucks DUA were started in 2020, gravel has been staged in the DUA parking lot for use on the parking lot and access road. PG&E was unable to complete the work in 2020 and will be returning as soon as we have access after snow melt. Grizzly Forebay Trail Heavy Maintenance to the trails at Grizzly Forebay Campground Trail is scheduled for the first year after issuance of a new license for the project. PG&E does not see an urgent need to perform this current maintenance work prior to a new license and considers the proposed timeframe to be reasonable. However, the Forest Service expressed concerns that the trail condition may pose a public safety issue. In late 2018, the canopy around the trail was improved and light trail maintenance was performed (smoothing/raking) by PG&E at the Grizzly Forebay Trail. Update PG&E proposes a site visit with O&M and the Forest Service in summer 2021 to further evaluate trail needs and discuss environmental clearances that may be needed if more significant repairs are deemed necessary. Actions 2021: Lower Bucks DUA improvements following Lower Bucks and Grizzly work, summer 2020 and spring 2021. Grizzly Forebay Trail site visit with Forest Service (Leslie Edlund), summer 2021. Article 408 Visual Resources. Article 408 specifically relates to construction of the Grizzly Powerhouse Development and the resulting disturbance and mitigation for those specific sites and facilities. Article 408 was meant solely for the Grizzly Powerhouse Development, as is discussed in the 1989 Environmental Assessment for the amendment. Status No further action has taken place under Article 408 since the completion of the Grizzly Powerhouse Development. Actions 2021: No action. 7. Transportation and Road Use o Road Use Agreement 8 Article 101Report Bucks Creek, FERC Project 619 April 14, 2021 Annual Forest Service Meeting Status Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the annual meeting held April 14, 2020 was a virtual meeting only-no in person gathering. Discussions included updating the existing Road Management Agreement (RMA) and annual reporting of planned maintenance activities. Final road designations have been established during the relicensing process to determine which roads belong in either the license plan or an RMA. Efforts to coordinate changes to the multiple licenses involved in the RMA have begun. PG&E has developed draft updated roads maps and lists and provided these during the 2018 meeting with Forest Service RMA staff. Chris Frappier (Forest Service) and Mike Momber have had ongoing RMA Revision discussions since the 2019 RMA meeting and the have made all the amendments and decisions that can be managed alone. The next step is to schedule a small face to face meeting with Forest Service staff to discuss progress to date and to agree on the path forward, with the intent of having a face to face meeting once COVID restrictions were lifted. Unfortunately, that did not happen in 2020 and the effort will look to 2021 for an opportunity to meet and further the RMA Revision. Amy Lind of PNF is supportive of this progress and approach. An added clarification to the 2020 RMA call is that the list of RMA roads for the future Agreement would be filtered to remove any roads that are covered by other existing rights agreements such as relevant FERC Transportation Management Plans (for Project specific/exclusive roads) and or electric line access roads with Forest Service Master Service Agreements/Special Use Permits (SUPs). The plan for 2021 is to discuss the next steps in the RMA update process, including an in person meeting between PG&E and the Forest Service (if possible), and continue annual road maintenance activity notification to the Forest Service using the new RMA tracking spreadsheet posted on the Forest Service SharePoint. The 2021 RMA Meeting is scheduled for April 13 and will likely be another virtual meeting only. Actions 2021: Mile High Road (Forest Service road to PG&E cottage leases. No Special Use Permit) Need to develop SUP. Forest Service and PG&E are collaborating on how to work with Bucks Lake Homeowners Association to develop road use permits. PG&E is satisfied with portion of the road but will want to meet the same standard as the Forest Service. PG&Ees renew in 2019, so there is an opportunity to burden the tenants if the Forest Service is willing to do the same. Forest Service cabin leases do not expire until 2028. The tenants may already be paying certain dues for road maintenance associated with their South Shore Association fee. 9 Article 101Report Bucks Creek, FERC Project 619 April 14, 2021 Annual Forest Service Meeting Three Lakes Road wet crossing (concrete apron) at MRC Diversion #3 (South Fork Grouse Hollow Ck) proposed for replacement during the Diversion #3 Pipeline Repair Project (July-Oct). 8. Cultural Resources Article 41 Cultural Resources. Article 41 allowed the ongoing use of flashboards on Bucks and 3 Lakes. It required consultation with the Forest Service and the SHPO and implementation of appropriate mitigation for anticipated effects to CA-PLU-115 (increased impacts due to higher water surface elevation, wave action, etc.). Status No further action has taken place under Article 41 since the completion of the above-listed activities. Actions 2021: None Article 103 Cultural Resources. This article required due diligence for cultural resources prior to the development/expansion activities planned at the following facilities: West End Cove/Indian Rocks, Sundew Campground, Lower Bucks Lake Camping Sites, Mill Creek Campground, Hutchins Group Camp, Bucks Creek Inlet Trailhead, and Rainbow Point Trail. Status No development or expansion activities were planned in the above listed facilities. Article 409 Cultural Resources. Article 409 specifically relates to construction of the Grizzly Powerhouse Development and the resulting disturbance and mitigation for those specific sites and facilities. Article 409 was meant solely for the Grizzly Powerhouse Development, as is discussed in the 1989 Environmental Assessment for the amendment. Status No further action has taken place under Article 409 since the completion of the Grizzly Powerhouse Development. Actions 2021: No action. 9. Botanical Resources Article 103/102 Noxious Weed Control and Monitoring Program/Use of Pesticides and Herbicides. The Noxious Weed Control and Prevention Plan was approved by FERC on 6/30/2006 (Article 103). Based on the results of initial surveys, in 2008 PG&E presented a noxious weed management strategy to the Forest Service, titled Bucks Creek Hydroelectric Project FERC No. 619 Vegetation Management Strategy for Noxious Weeds within the Plumas National Forest. Based on the recommendations in the Strategy, PG&E performs target noxious weed control activities including post-treatment monitoring. 10 Article 101Report Bucks Creek, FERC Project 619 April 14, 2021 Annual Forest Service Meeting Status - In 2016 a comprehensive survey of the project area was implemented. Treatments in 2017-2020 were based on the results of those surveys. Grid cells with known occurrences in the project were treated with manual methods in July 6-8 and 14-15, 2020. All treated cells were monitored approximately four weeks after treatment on August 12 and 13, 2020. The 2020 monitoring report was sent to Forest Service on October 27, 2020. The Forest Service provided PG&E with comments on the report on November 23, 2020. PG&E addressed Forest Service comments, finalized the report with the consultation record, and submitted it to Forest Service on December 15, 2020. Actions 2021: A new comprehensive survey for noxious weeds will be implemented in 2021. Treatments and monitoring in the future will be based on this comprehensive survey. Annual noxious weed treatment and monitoring will continue in 2021. 10. Miscellaneous Conditions/Subjects o Project Update: o Lower Bucks Dam Repairs, 2020 Installation of the geomembrane liner was complete in November 2020. Construction Stormwater Permit closeout is expected in spring 2021 (some upland area hydroseeding/mulching activity) along with a full demobilization/project wrap up: Lower Bucks DUA and entry improvements (see item 6 above) Milk Ranch Conduit tie-in return pipe to original configurations, will require a road closure for 1-2 weeks Remove and patch the pipe crossing in the road (24N24) near Bucks Storage LLO Access Road o Grizzly Forebay Debris Removal and Low-Level Outlet Improvement, 2020 Debris Removal and LLO modifications completed in October 2020. o Grizzly Forebay Dam Access Improvement, summer 2021 Grizzly Dam is only accessible during the summer/early fall. G&E/FERC/DSOD have identified several access and safety issues at Grizzly Forebay Dam that need to be addressed for operations, maintenance, dam safety inspectors, survey personnel and to improve general safety. This project will replace the right abutment staircase, improve the left abutment access, provide dam crest guardrails. o Main Bucks Storage Spillway, 2020 The spillway was evaluated in 2019 with some spillway repairs occurring in late 2019. Repairs continued in 2020 and the work was completed in fall 2020. o Milk Ranch Conduit, Diversion 3 Repair, late summer 2021 This project has been redesigned as the initial design was no longer feasible. The new design required fill and a permit from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers 11 Article 101Report Bucks Creek, FERC Project 619 April 14, 2021 Annual Forest Service Meeting (Corps). The project permits were issued but due to budget constraints and the need for FERC approval, the project was postponed. The project is planned to kick off mid-late summer 2021 pending FERC approval. o Haskins Boat Ramp, late summer 2021 Repair project planned for fall 2021, project is in the permitting phase. o Lower Bucks Spillway Reconstruction, 2021/2022 Project is in planning phase; project team is pulling together an outline for mobilization/Enviro Protection/Demolition/Formwork/Concrete/Site Restoration/Demobilization o Grizzly Dam Repair Possible Construction 2022/23 PG&E is working with DSOD and FERC on a geotechnical investigation to evaluate the condition of the dam concrete at Grizzly Forebay Dam, the investigation is planned for summer 2021. This assessment will inform PG&E if a repair project is needed. 12 From:"FERC eSubscription" Subject:Telephone Conversation or Electronic Mail Memo issued in FERC P-619-164 Date:Tuesday, June 15, 2021 6:45:07 AM .ATTENTION: This message originated from outside Butte County. Please exercise judgment before opening attachments, clicking on links, or replying.. On 6/15/2021, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), Washington D.C., issued this document: Docket(s): P-619-164 Lead Applicant: Pacific Gas and Electric Company Filing Type: Telephone Conversation or Electronic Mail Memo Description: Memo dated 06/15/2021 providing record of communication with California State Historic Preservation Office et al re the execution of a final programmatic agreement for the relicensing of the Bucks Creek Hydroelectric Project under P-619. 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Comments and Suggestions can be sent to this email address: mailto:FERCOnlineSupport@Ferc.gov Meeting Memo To:Public Files From:Frank Winchell -OEP Date:June 15, 2021 Dockets:P-619-164 Project:Bucks Creek Hydroelectric Project Subject:Microsoft Teams Meeting with California SHPO and ACHP Regarding Execution of the Final PA for Relicensing of the Bucks Creek Hydroelectric Project On June 14, 2021, Commission staff held a meeting with the stafffromthe California State Historic Preservation Office (CA SHPO) and Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (ACHP) involving the execution of a final programmatic agreement (PA) for the relicensing of the Bucks Creek Hydroelectric Project (Project)(see FERC letter issued on January 29, 2021). Participants at the meeting included CA SHPO staff members Mike McGuirt, Supervisor, Archaeology and Environmental Compliance Unit, and Brendon Greenaway, Associate State Archaeologist. Participating ACHP staff included, Jaime Loichinger, Assistant Director of the Office of Federal Agency Programs (OFAP), and John Eddins, Program Analyst at OFAP. Participating Commission staff included, Heather Campbell, Federal Preservation Officer, Tim Konnert, Chief, West Branch of the Division of Hydropower Licensing (DHL), and Frank Winchell, Archaeologist, West Branch, DHL. The scope of the meeting involved the CA SHPO’s declining to execute the final PA with the Commission, to which Commission staff requested that the ACHP participate in a meeting with the CA SPHO and Commission staff to resolve the impasse. The CA SHPO had originally declined to execute the PA until the Commission modified the PA based on her recommendations(see SHPO letters filed on March 2,2020,and May 7, 2021).Commission staff contended that the PA did not need to be further modified, as the CA SHPO recommendations had already been incorporated into the associated historic properties management plan (HPMP). To potentially resolve the impasse between the CA SHPO and Commission, the ACHP recommended that the PA be modified to include stipulations that:(1) the HPMP could be amended;(2) allow the project’s area of potential effects tobe amended;and (3) creation, comment, and finalization of an annual report of the HPMP implementation in conjunction with an annual meeting(see ACHP letter filed on June 9, 2021). After, reviewing and discussing the points and perspectives of the participants, it was agreed that the CA SHPO and ACHP would craft additional language and/or stipulations into a revised PA that would incorporate the recommendations made by the ACHP. Therevised PA would be filed with the Commission, whereupon the Commission, CA SHPO, and ACHP would execute the final revised PA.