HomeMy WebLinkAboutLetter of Support USFSUnited StatesUSDADepartmentof:z-:z=;_..Agriculture
Forest
Service
Alaska Region
Tongass National Forest
Sitka Ranger District
204 Siginaka Way
Sitka,AK 99835
Phone:(907)747-6671
Fax:(907)747-4253
File Code:2170
Date:September I],2012
Shawn Calfa
Grant Manager
Alaska Energy Authority
8]3 West Northern Lights Blvd.
Anchorage,AK 99503
I am writing this letter in support of the City of Tenakee Springs'Indian River Hydroelectric Project grant
proposal for Round 6 of the Renewable Energy Grant Program.This project is an excellent example of
responsible,sustainable use of our local resources.Once complete,this project will supply about 90%of
Tenakee Springs'current electrical demands and displace about 44,400 gallons of diesel fuel per year.
Diesel fuel generated electricity contributes significant amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere as
well as creating significant noise.Recent increases in the price of diesel fuel have resulted in 3]7%
increased cost of fuel from 2002 to 2009.
This project will help to stabilize and lower electric rates in Tenakee Springs.Those changes would
lower the cost of living in the community and make local businesses more viable.Other potential benefits
are diversifying the local economy,stabilizing or increasing the population of school-age children,and
providing a stepping stone toward potential jobs in construction,maintenance,and operation of
hydroelectric generation.This will in turn increase the long-term viability of the community.
The Tongass National Forest is a committed partner to Tenakee Springs'development of sustainable,
affordable,and renewable power generation.We are working closely with the City to ensure long-term
access to the project site through changes in our motor vehicle use planning and reciprocal rights-of-way.
The City concurrently is working with the Tongass National Forest to develop project design and
operations compatible with the Forest Services'significant investments in enhancing the salmon
productivity of Indian River.
If you have any questions please fee free to contact me at (907)747-4218 or by email at
cgoularte@fsJed.us.
Sincerely,
CAROL A.GOULARTE
District Ranger
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