WSP10278

• File Number: 8220.112.I
• Description: Dallas Creek Participating Project
• State: CO
• Basin: Gunnison
• Water Division: 4
• Date: 12/12/1980
• Title: Comments on the Environmental Assessment - Dallas Creek Project Addition of Hydroelectric Power Generation
• Water Supply Pro - Doc Type: EIS

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Comments

Ridgeway Dam - Hydropower Generation

1. It makes good sense to develop the potential for hydropower
while constructing a new reservoir;

2. Alternatives 2 (single unit, year-round production), 3
(two unit plan with year-round production), and 4 (single unit
plant producing for six months) appear to be the most valuable
options. They seem to represent reasonable balances between
production of needed power versus minimum stream flows,
recreational losses, effects on flora and fauna, and social
impacts.

3. Of these, Alternative 3 is the best alternative for
supplying a year-round power supply, even though the benefit
cost ratio is slightly lower. Because of the year-round aspect,
they will qualify for better rates for their electricity.

4. On thing to keep in mind is that Colorado ute is justifying
their Juniper-Cross Mountain Project as a Peaking plant by
pointing out the present scarcity of peaking power within their
system in Western Colorado. However, I do not think the small
amount of peaking power mentioned in Alternative 5 (4,420 MWh
annually) is enough to contribute substantially to the need.
The costs, bct:.h financially and environmentally, do not merit
this alternative.

5. It is stated that reimbursable costs of the Dallas Creek
Project include construction costs and interest during
construction allocated to municipal and industrial water,
construction costs allocated to irrigation and all annual
operation, maintenance, and replacement costs. It is important
that all power costs be paid by power revenues, and not by
other users.

6. It is stated that the present hydroelectric power proposal
has been discussed with Tri-County Water Conservancy District,
Western Area Power Administration, San Miguel Power Association,
Colorado Division of Wildlife, and Colorado Division of Parks
and Outdoor Recreation. Colorado Ute is a major G & T utility
in the area and should also be contacted.