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ENGINEERS ® SURVEYORS ® ENVIRONMENTAL CONSULTANTS
September 15, 2010
Dear Mike:
It was a pleasure to talk to you and discuss the issues facing Akiak and your wish to
pursue a renewable energy source to meet the community power needs. As you
discussed with myself and Bruce Tiedeman of AEA, a reconnaissance study to analyze
the option of in stream hydroelectric power from the Kuskokwim River would be
required at this stage to determine the viability of the project. An analysis of the
Kuskokwim River hydraulics, hydrology and geologic conditions would need to be
included in this work plan to determine the feasibility of the renewable resource, and
prevent erosion and flooding damage protection to the community of Akiak.
The following work would need to be completed for your proposed reconnaissance study
to analyze the options and provide effective recommendations on how best to proceed.
1. Basic reconnaissance to determine the most effective workable solutions for
renewable electrical power and flood control.
2. Hydrologic analysis with sufficient river flow readings over time to define the
conditions both in thawed and ice covered states and look at the potential for
extreme flood events and ice jams.
3. Mapping the geomorphology of the section of the Kuskokwim River that
affects the community.
4. Geologic analysis including bed and bank materials, frozen soil conditions
and effects of global warming and its potential consequences.
5. Review project feasibly, and consideration of land use, environmental
conditions, regulations and permit requirements.
6. Prepare project preliminary cost estimate.
7. Prepare recommendations for project.
We estimate that $350,000 would be required to complete this work and prepare a
feasibility report of the renewable resource.
Sincerely Yours
Earle V. Ausman
President
1503 WEST 33RD AVENUE - SUITE 310 ® ANCHORAGE, ALASKA 99503
PHONE (907) 258-2420 ® FAX (907) 258-2419 ® HOMEPAGE www.r)olarconsult.net