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Home My WebLink AboutAPA1399I I II I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Attachment A.-4 Amendment No. 3 ALASKA POWER AUTHORITY SUSITNA HYDROELECTRIC PROJECT PLAN OF STUDY -REVISION 3 MAY 19, l9t32 by AGKES AMEtUCAN INCORPOKJ.\TED Liberty Bank Building, Main at Court Buffalo~ New York 14202 I I I I I I I I I I I I I •• I I I I I TABLE OF CONTENTS R~l -INTRODUCTION • ····~········.;t·············· .. ··················,······· R .2 -REVIS IONS TO DETAILED ACTIVITY DESCR l?TIONS BY TASK ... H •••••••• R.,2.1. -Task 2 -Surveys and Site Facilities .................. o R.2. 2. -Task 3 -Hydrology ................................... C>. ,(1 R. 2. 3 .. -Task 5 -Geotechnical Exploration .................•. "' R'"2o4. -Task 6 -Design Development ... ~ .•.. ·~ ............ ·····~ R.·2. 5. -Task 7 -Environmental Studies •••••••••••••••••••••• ~. R.2.6. -Task 9 -Construction Cost Estimates & Schedules ....•. R.2 .. 7. -Task 12-Public Participation ··········••o•••Oe······· R.2.8. -Task 13-Administration ...•••..................•...... Page 1 2 3 5 19 24 25 52 54 55 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I- I I R -1 -IN ·:f(uuUCTION Since the issue of the February 1980 POS, two amendments to the POS have been completed. These (ID'Iendments have been in response to suggestions from state and federal agencies, interested citizens, and public and private organizations. In response to continuing dialogue among study, participants {i.e., APA, state and federal agencies, and Acres) it has been determined that the projec.t would bene-- fit by extending the date for FERC 1 icense apolication from June -30, 19b2 to September 30, l98t.~, and continuing with certain of the ongoing work. This will substantially improve the quality of the license application and, although post- poned by 90 days~ should not delay granting of the license by Ft:RC .. The license application would be improved as follows: -Additional time will be available for APA and the agencies to review and com- ment on the project Feasibility Report and supporting documents. Acres will then have sufficient time to address the comments in the FERC license applica- tion. · -The data obtained by ADF&G during the 1981/1982 winter season will be used in the development of mitigation proposals and will be included in Exhibit E - Environmental Report. -Time will be available for obtaining additional field data and developing more detailed fish and wildlife impact mitigation proposals than presently ;:xists .. -Adaitional information will be developed and included in the license applica- tion regarding various-project financing arrang~~ents. Additional work items which are planned through the end of September 1Y82 are: -Additional planning o.nd permitting activities and associated fie1d wort< to develop a comprehensive geotechnical program to meet the 1ong-term needs of the project. -Field reconnaissance and further study of the access route location and elimi- nation of the 11 pioneer road 11 concept. -Continued operation of the field camps· and logistics support. -Continued monitoring of hydrologic, climatic and geotechnical instrumenta- +-• .. 1on. -Continued Project Management and Administration for the extended time pe'riod. c -Preparing/updating cost estimates and schedules in connect ion 'ifith the above. -Continued environmental studies and analyses concerning socioeconomics~ land use~ recreation, fish ecology and wildlife. . -Investigation of various design changes necessary to meet changing environ- mental criteria. 1 -• I I I I I I I I I I I I I~ I I I I I (l R .2 -REVISIONS TO DETAILED. ACTIVITY DESCRIPTIONS liV TASK Revisions to detailed activity descriptions by Task are presented in the following pages. 2 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I ~ubtask 2.02. -Provisio.n of field Camp~ and Associated Logist,ics Suppor,l (a) Objective Provide ongoing field camp ana logistics support for the continuing field studies. (b) Apprqach . During the time period from April 1 to June 30, 1982~ the camp operation will be maintained at a minimum level and fue1 consumption will be mini- ,,. mized through the use of the smaller 60kw generator. During this time period the actual calculated fuel needs for camp and helicopter operations will be supplied to the camp by helicopter. During the period July 1 to September 30, 1982, camp staff will be in- creased to h~ndle the increased field staff to support continuing environ- mental and geotechnical activities.. He1 icopter contracts for up to four aircraft will be awarded~ and fixed wing service from Anchorage and Fairbanks will be ·initiated. Fuel resupply will be made early in July to supply the needs for the summer operation. ' ' In addition to the above needs, a contract will be negotiated with High Lake Lodge to prov"lde accommodations for personnel involved in environmental and access studies .. (c) Schedule See above .. 3 I I I I I I •• I I I I' ·~ I -I / Subtask 2.10 -Access Roads (a) Q.bjective (b) To evaluate alternatives to the "pioneer road" concept. Approach During the time period f~om April 1 to June 30~ 1982, t~e preliminary engi- neering studies for the recommended access road route will be completed. Due to. the concern over the pioneer road concept, recommended alternatives to this concept will be reviewed and a corridor studied which could help alleviate schedule constraints. The level of study and pre1iminary design on this alternative route will be brought up to the same level as the studies on the recommended route. Appropriate amendments to the access road report wi 11 be prepared. (c) Schedule April 1, 1982 to June 30 7 1982. 4 I I. I I I I I I I· I I I I I I I I I •• Subtask 3.03 ... Field Data CoJ lection and Processing . (a) Objectiv<! To continue field data acquisition and perform studies to address newly identified needs to support the instream flow program. {bl Approach Studies will be undertaken in eight main areas. (i) Continuing Field Data Acquisition and New Field Work (ii) ( i i;) (iv) Field data acquisition will continue at the same level of effort as Phase I in the Upper Susitna Basin, wit;l additional field wnrk in the river below Dsvil Canyon to support new studies. All six cli- mate stations wi 11 cant inue to operate, as will the Watana stream- gaging site. Water quality sampling will continue to be conducted at Vee Canyon and Gold Creek, with possible expansion to other sites. Snow surveys will be continued through the 1982 winter and spring. New field work is concentrated on obtaining data in sel- ected side-channels above Talkeetna and in the main river below Talkeetna. Additional staff gages, bed material sampling, cross- sections in sloughs and channel sections will be obtained to support additional studies for fisheries and navigation .. Selection of data acquisition sites will be made following discussions with Acres,. ADF&G, and Envir~nmental subcontractor. Water Source Studies of Sloughs and Side~Channels Studies will be conducted at representative sloughs and side- channels to determine the relative contributions to flow of ground water and of intergravel flow from the mainstem Sus1tna, especially during the winter period. Determination of permeability of soils in the islands and berms wi 11 be made and used in an analysis of contributions during post-pr.oject w1nter flows a~_d stages. Incremental Flow Study -Fisheries Enhancement Hydraulic analysis of side channels and sloughs, us·Jng existing mode 1 s, will determine the effects of varying flow rates on the hydraulic characteristics at salmon spawning h(}!1?tat reaches. It is anticipated that this will be an interdisciplinary effort with fish- eries. biologists. The budget estimate is for conducting the hyd.raulic studies. Ice and Hydraulic Studies, Lower Susitna River ... ® The Susitna River below its confluence with the Chulitna wi11 have a reduced capacity to t~··ansport sediment due to the reduced summer 5 I I I I I I I I I I •• I ·~ :• ;I I I I I I f1ows from the Susitnct River.. Consequently, additional study is re- quired to further refine the impact on the channel configuration and to refine aggradat iort estimates.. Bedload data wi 11 be gathered by the U.S. Geological Survey at the Chulitna River, Talkeetna River, Susitna River above the confluence, and Susi'tna River at Sunshine. Bed material.particle-size distribution data, crossesections, and stage data will be collected and used to analyze morphological changes in reach between the Chulitna confluence and Montana Creek. Ice observations and water temperature data will also be collected in this reach. Both studies will attempt to identify how far downstream the effects will be noticed. Note: U .. S. Geological Survey and Alaska Power Authority have discussed a joint funding agreement for bedload data collection for the 1982 season. The agreement is for $200,000 ($100,000 from APA, $100,000 from USGS). (Refer to the letter from Phil Emery, USGS, to APA, dated 22 September 198). (v) Lower Susitna Crass-Sections Reduced summer flows may have impacts on navigation on the ri.ver be- low Talkeetna. Cross-sections will be surveyed at critical points between Talkeetna and Cook Inlet, and crest and staff gages in- stalled to establish a stage-discharge relationship. (vi) Hydraulic Studies -Talkeetna to Devil Canyon Additional studies of the water surface elevations between Devil Canyon and T.all<eetna may be required in support of fisheries studies. Further refinement of the accuracy of the model is pos- sible with additional cross-sections and crest stage data at criti- cal sites. (vii) Cross-Sections, Middle Susitna {viii) ., Additional cross-sections may be required to support the hydraulic studies between Talkeetna and Devil Canyon. The budget is fer up to 20 additional cross-sections. Glacier Studies Phase 1 studies indicate that possioly 10 to 15 percent of the flow recorded at Gold Creek may have been provided by the shrinking of Susitna Basin glaciers. Consequently~ studies to define the volume, the mass oalance, and the flow dynamics assume increasing import- ance. (c) Schedule (i) 1 April to 30 June {l) Mass balance data are to be collected by the Geophysical Institute in late April or early May, the period of maximum 6 ,, I I I I I I I I I I I I I I ~. I I I I snowpack. The budget is to obtain data, with only pre1 iminary analysis. A continuing data acquisition program following the 1981 season 1s important in gathering annual mass balance data. (2) Glacier velocity data acquisition is to be expanded to the MacLaren and East Fork Gi aciers, with control points to be located on each. Data will continue to be collected at West Fork and ·susitna Glaciers .. (ii) 1 JulY. to 30 September: (1) A second mass balance measurement is to be conducted in August in order to obtain the net balance.. The scope of work is similar to that during 1 April to 30 June. (2} PhotograrMletric Mapping West Fork and East Fork Glaciers. The relative elevation change in the above glaciers (and the total ice Joss) between 1950 and 1982 can be determined through photogrammetric techniques, as determined in a feasibility study conducted on East Fork Glacier in 1981.. Accuracy is limited by that of the control. Using available data, accuracy can be pinned down no closer than .:!:_60 feet. Surveyed horizontal and vertical control, together with panel- ling ar1d new photography will enable accuracies to within +10 feet. Studies should inc1ude both West Fork and East Fork- Glaciers in order to bracket the major glaciers. 7 I, I I. I I I I I I I ••• I I I I I I- I •• Subtask 3.07 -S~diment Yield and ~iver Morphologl (a) Objective To further evaluate glacial flour setting behavior. (b) Agpro ach The Reservoir Sedimentation Report completed January 1982 under Subtask 3~07 included -results from a· 1 iterature search to gather information on the trap efficiency of natural glacial lakes and associated sedime:!tation pro- cesses. Results of this search show that published literature offers 1 itt1e insight into glacial f1rur-setting behavior. (i) Phase I Studies Under Phase I of the current reservoir sedimentation study, investi- gations have begun to retrieve any unpublished data or reports from those references included in the Reservoir Sedimentation Report and to search out any additional information from sources worldwide. Table I 1 tsts the individuals interviewed to date concerning the problem of reservoir sedimentation processes and water quality. Each described his relevant work experiences, recommenaed additional publications, and/or suggested other individuals to be contacted .. Several, as indicated, have agreed to forward unpub 1 ished informa- tion for use in the study. Table 2 lists those individuals worldwide who have been contacted by letter requesting any information in published or unpublished form~ concerning bl.t not limited to: temperature stratification, turbid- ity levels, particle-size distribution, sediment concentration, or controls on productivity in lake or reservoir systems. Information from these sources will be reviewed, and if judged applicable to Susitna, additional analyses of the data will be carried out. (ii) Phase 2 Studies: watana Reservoir Clari.ty Analysis There is available a considerable amount of data and studies on the proposed Watana Reservoir that should be further analyzed with re- spect: to the water clarity problem .. The work outlined below in Table 3 and Figure I will utilize this information and analyze the physical processes associated with settlement of fine particles (less than 20 microns). Emphasis is placed on interpreting and quantitatively analyzing the driving mechanisms that retain the fine sediment in suspenslon. These consist primarily of wind-driven cur- rents, thermal currents., and reservoir operation. The end result would be an annual turbidity vs. time graph. 8 I I I I I I I I lc I I I I I I I I I ... I (iii) The analyses will be carried out for each month and summarized on a figure similar to that which is attached. TI1ts will portray key parameters and their variability. After each month has been. analyzed, it will be an easy task to summarize it on an annual graph. Since this is in part a qualitative assessment., all results will be discussed thoroughly and founded by expected maximtm and minimum values. Phase 3 Studies: Comparison With Other Northern Reservoirs and Lakes The results of analyses conducted in Phase 2 need to be compared with ather northern systems.. Due to 1 imitations of the existing data base and analytical techniques, it would be difficult to instill confidence in the Phase 2 results without making comparisons with similar systems. For example, from the engineering standpoint~ the longer the detention time, ttle greater tha settlement of particles, and hence, c1earer the water. However, Jeff Koe;nings (AOF&G) has found that through his observations on Kenai Peninsula Lakes, the shorter the detention time, the clearer systems become during winter. His preliminary explanation for this is that the short detention period allows the clear winter water input to dis- place the cloudy water. During summer, glacial waters would again fill the lakes with cloudy water. If the efforts explained in Phase I produce other case histories or studies similar to Susitna, then a thorough-as-possible comparison will be made. Basic principles will be reviewed to insure their applicability to Susitna. Res,Jltant values of key parameters on Susitna will be compared with those on other projects and an assess- ment of represent i veness made. Key parameters. wi 11 be bounded so that an appreciation of expected maximum and minimum values for each can be defined. Results of the natural lake suspended sediment concentration and turbidity survey currently being conducted by R&l-1 Consultants will be compared with Phase 2 results. Since there is no lake system that has physical characteri sties that can be directly related to the Watana Reservoir, it will be important to screen the key par<l~ meters prior to making the comparison. It is proposed that bulk samples be retrieved from some of the lakes bei.ng studied. These samples then would be ·run through a settling- column analysis~ as was conducted on Susitna River water last summer If the lake water cleared in a similar manner as the Susitna water, then it would indicr:::.e that water currents ~re present in deep northern lakes of sufficient magnitude to retain the glacial flour in suspension. This would indicate as well that a similar process would be expected in the Susitna Reservoir. It is recommended that samples be retrieved from the lakes before the ice leaves. 9 I ·I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I {c) Accomplishments and Deliverables Report Field Data Index {update) Climate Uata ( f\'1eteoro 1 og ica l) 10/~1 -6/82 -7/82 -9/82 Ice Observations, 1981-1982 Fie 1 d Data Co 11 ect ion Water QuaT ity Interpretative Report Side Channel Analysis Interim Report (Including available ground water, water surface elevation, and cross- section data} Final Report Glacial Lake Thermal & Sediment Regime Analysis Interim Report Final Report Glacier Mass Balance Data Report -l9H2 10 Date July l9tl~ July 19~2 September 1982 August 1982 Oct{)ber 1982 September 19~2 July 198t! November 19~~ June 1982 Novemoer 1982 September 1982 -------- TV ONE. WIND. ROSE. • DR lVI INFLOW. OUTFLO'R.· FLow· THRU VELOCITY: DETENTION• TIME~ ICE COVER. PRESENT MEAN AMBIENT TEMP: MEAN RESERVOIR TEMP~ • THERMAL TREND INFLOW. TEMP: FLOW PATTERN MIXING POTENTIAL. ISM .. I \ THERMAL CURRENT VELOCITY~: WIND DRIVEN CURRENT VELOCITY. EXAMPLE MONTH. ~ KOSINA' WIND. ROSE. ,, ---- FIGURE l . WATANA. WIND ROSE . . --- WATER CHARACTERISTICS. SEDIMENT= CONCENTRATION: IN SEDIMENT CONCENTRATIO·N: MID,~ . ' . SEDIMENT CONCENTRATION OUT REEN1'RAINMENT POTENTIAL STRATIFICATION. POTENTIAL RELATIVE TURBIDITY. IN RELATIVE TURBIDITY MID RELATIVE TURBIDITY OUT • I I I I I • I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I * * * TABLE 1 Individuals interviewed concerning reservoir sedimentation processes and water qua 1 ity . • Jeff Koenings ... ADF&G -FRED Division .. Soldotna • Jack Colonell -Woodward-Clyde Consultants ... Anchorage .. Paul Chao -TAMS Eng. -N.Y. • Bill Wilson· AEIDC .. Anchorage • 'Earl Hadfield -CH2M-HILL -Corvall.is, Oregon • Joe Scott -CH2M-HILL -Seattle • Bill Fullerton -Simons, Li & Assoc. ~ Ft. Collins, CO • Victor Galay-Northwest Hydraulics, L~d. -Canada • Mike Okum -Northwest Hydraulics, Ltd. -Canada • Arve Tvede -Norwegian Water Resources & Electricity Board • Iver Hagen -Norwegian Water Resources & Electricity Board • Larry Peterson -L.A. Peterson & Associates -Fairbanks • Dr. Donald Gray -University of Michigan, Dept. of Civil Engineering • Dr. Richard Woods -University of Michigan, Dept. of Civil Engineering .. Or. Bob Carlson -Institute of Water Resources -Fairbanks • Jacque 1 ine LaPerriere -A 1 ask a Cooper at iva Fisheries Research Unit -Fairbanks o Dr. Tom Osterkamp -Geophysical Institute -Fairbanks • Jim Aldrich-State Pipeline Coordinator's Office-Fairbanks • Or. Charles Slaughter -Institute of Northern Forestry -Fairbanks • Dr. C.T. Dyrness -Institute of Northern Forestry-Fairbanks .. Dr. Sathy Naidu -Institute of Marine Sciences -Fairbanks * Will provide additional information for use in this study. 12 I I I I I I I I I I •• I I I I I I I I TABLE 2 Individuals Contacted by Letter Requesting Additional Data Dr. Paul Chao TAMS Engineering New York~ New York Or; Carl J. Bowser University of Wisconsin , ·Madison, Wisconsin Dr. Robert A. Ragotzkie University of Wisconsin Madison, Wisconsin Dr. Gabrie 1 T. -Csanady Woods Hole, Massachusetts Dr.· Abraham Lerman Northwestern University Evanstor~ Illinois Dr. Daw·yl Simons Simons, Li & Associates Fort Call ins, Co lorado Dr. Hans P. Eugster The Johns Hopkins Uni~ersity Baltimore, Maryland Or. Lawrence A. Hardie The Jahns Hopkins University Baltimore, Maryland C'r. Tyler B. Coplen U.S. Geological Survey Reston, Virginia Dr. ~.J. Pearson, Jr. U.S~ Geological Survey Reston, Virginia Mr. Herb Schneider University of California-Davis Davis, California Mr. Wa1ten•·· Wunderlich Engineering Laboratory Tennessee Valley Authority f't~rris., Tennessee 13 I I I I I INDIA Or. Devendra La 1 Physical Research Laboratory Navrangpura, Ahmedabad~ India Dr. S. Krishnaswami Physical Research Laboratory Navrangpura, Ahmedabad, India NORWAY I Mr. Gunnar Ostrem Norwegian Water Resources & Electricity Board I I. I •• I I I I I I I I I Oslo, Norway SWEDEN Mr. Ake Sundberg Uppsala University Uppsala. Sweden SWITZERLAND Dr • Werner Stumm Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Ouebendorf, Switzerland Dr. Dieter M. Imboden Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Duebendorf, Switzerland Dr. Kenneth J. Hsu Geological Institute Zurich, Switzerland Or. Kerry Ke 1ts Geological Institute Zurich, Switzerland CANADA Dr. Peter G. Sly Canada Centre for In 1 and Waters Burlington, Ontario, Canada Dr·. Mary A. Barnes University of Britjsh Columbia Vancouver, B.C., Canada Dr. Willi am C. Barnes University of British Columbia V~ncouver, B.C., Canada 14 I I' I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I TABLE 3 WORK OUTLINE -1. Climate Data • Obtain summaries of ongoing data gathering activities (R&M). .. Extract and tabulate pertinent data. 2. Reservoir Data • Extract from Hydrology Report • • More detailed modelling results (Acres) .. 3. Sediment Data • Obtain USGS and R&M data. • Summarize monthly • • Tabulate. 4. Ver-ify Sediment Cottcentrations vs. Turbidity Relationship .. Investigate other projects. . Meet with experts in field. 5. gonduct Sediment Settling Velocity Analysis • Assume quiescent conditions • • Simulate water temperature. viscosity, etc. for each month • • Calculate settling velocity for the following sized particles: -20, 10, 5, 2, 1 and 0.5 hli~rons. -Consider various shaped particles. 6. Wind-Driven Currents and Transport • Based on wind data, compute frequency of significant wind-driven current for each month. • Assume a simple one-dimensional reservoir configuration • • Compute current velocity at incremental depths • • Qualitatively assess potential of establishing wind-driven coastal current magnitude and direction. 8 Summarize for each month frequency, duration, current velocities, and expected current ~irection. 7. Thermal Currents and Stratification o Obtain reservoir temperature modeling report and data. • Obtain available data on,..deep northern lakes • • Incorporate results of reservoir thermal modelling studies (Acres). o Qualitatively assess thermal-generated currents and density stratification pctenti al for each month • • Determine potential for separate flow patterns; i . .a., underflow, interflow, or overflow. 15 I I. I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I TABLE 3 -Contid 8. Reservoir Operation • Obtain reserv~ir operation scheme and data for each month. • Assume one-dimensional flow • • Calculate 1 ive and dead stor~ge for e;ach month • • Calculate flow velocity for 1 ive star' age zone • . Calculate flow velocity for total stClrage zone. " Qua1 ftatively assess reintrainment ptltential along 1 ive storage shore zone. 9. Suspended Sediment Concentration and T'urbidity Analysis • Assume that if the driving mechanisms produce currents equal to or greater than particle size, no settling wi1'1 occur • .. Assume that if driving mechanisms p·roduce currents ·1ess than the fall velocity, a linear relationship exists and the fall velocity is retarded proportionally • • Compare various particle settling velocities with current velocities,. and determine the proportion of sedime1nt that is expected to stay in suspen- sion during each month at mid-reservoir anq outlet .. • Determine turbidity levels based on sediment concentrations from relation- ship curve for each month • • Plot annual turbidity vs. time ba$ed on these results. 10. Qualitative Assessment • The above analysis obviously is simple and assumes a modified ideal sit- uation. The results would probably portray maximum clarity that could be expected in the Watana Reservoir. • Address each assumption made and! qualitatively assess it with respect to the real situation. • Develop other scenarios that would bound the above res:ults and reasonably represent confidence limits. Plot on turbidity vs. time graph. 16 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I TABLE 4 SUSITNA SEDIMENTATION AND WATER CLARITY STUDY WATANA RESERVOIR VARIABLES TO BE.CONSIDERED IN ANALYSES Morphological • Depth • Length • Width . Surface area • Volume • Shoreline characteristics • Lake surface and land drainage relationship Physical • Ba•;·in characteristics • Latitude . Altitude • Drainage area • Percent glacier coverage Reservoir • Orientation • Distance from source • Streamflow -post project inflow/outflow • Deter;tion time . Wind-generated currents • Thermal currents . Operational induced currents Climate • Wind • Air temperature • Solar radiation . Cloud cover . Mean annual precipitation • Water temperature • Ice cover development • Albedo Sediment • Incoming sediment concentration • Turbidity/1 ight attenuation • Particle size distribution 17 I I •• I I I I' I I I I I I I I I I I I TABLE 4 (Cont'd) • Specific weight .. Mineralogy .. Electrical properties Chemical • pH • Conductivity • Alkalinity • Phosphorous • Nitrogen Reservoir Operation • Potential bank erosion • Permafrost processes • Effects of changing water levels • Outlet elevations • Orawdown Processes Active in the Reservoir • Trap efficiency • Flow patterns -Underflow -Inflow -Overflow -Currents • Wind • Density • Thermal • Sedimentation processes -Coagulation -Floccul aton -Aggradation -Reentr'ainment -Stratification . Thermal processes -Stratification ,. 18 I I I I I I I I I I I I -I I I I I I I " Subtask 5 .. 09 -sc·oeing FY83 Program (Geotechnical) (a) Obj£!CtiY! , This work will be done from April l, 1982 through June 30, 1982, and will consist of preparing a detailed scope and cost for performing the geotech- nical work during fiscal year 1983. (b) ApJ?roach/Discussion Work from April 1 through June 30 will consist of preparing a detailed scope and cost for performing the geotechnical work during FY83. The scope of work to be undertaken will be prioritized based on geotech- nical and engineer'ing design requirements.. The scope will clearly define the objective and purpose for performing the work. Based on the results of the 1980-81 geotechnical work performed at the Watana site, the principal areas to be investigated during FY83 are: • Borrow Areas D, E, and I; and • Relict channel. The scope of work to be prepared wi 11 . inc 1 ude aetai 1 s of: • Type of· equipment to be used; • Number, location, and depth of boreholes and test trenches; • Seismic work; • In-hole testing; and .. Laboratory testing. Also included in the scope will be a detailed schedule and cost for per- forming the work and preparation of necessary permit application to local and state agencies. Alternative contingency plans for accomplishing this work will also be addressed. (c) Schedule April 1, 1982 through June 30, 1982. 19 I I ·~ I I I I I I' • II I I I I I I I I I Subtask 5.10 -Specification Preparation and Contract Administration (Geotechnical) (a) Objective. To prepare the necessary specifications and contracts to do the work defined under Subtask 5o09 .. (b) Approach/Discussion Based on the scope of work prepared under Subtask 5.09, the necessary spec- ifications and contY'acts will be prepared to perfonn the work within the project schedule. The Anchorage and Buffalo offices will identify equip- ment suppliers and testing facilities that are capable of performing the· FY83 work. Discussions will be held with various vendors and contractors to ascertain their capabilities of performing the work. In order to meet the project schedule_for commencing field investigations by July 1982, drilling and testing contracts must be in place so that mobilization can begin on July 1. Where necessary, Acres will: .. Prepare specifications and bid documents; • Issue for bids and review quotations; and .. Award and prepare contracts .. (c) Schedule It is anticipated that all contracts for performing the summer work from July 1 through September 30 will be tn place by June 1982~ 20 I I •• I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Subtask 5.11 -Field Investigations, Testing~ and Reports {Geotechnical) (a) Objective To perform additional field investigations, laboratory testing, data reduc~ tion, and prepare the fiscal year 1983 geotechnical program .. {b) !illProach/Oiscussion Based on a detailed review of the geologic and geotechnical conditions at the Watana. site, three principal areas warrant further investigation during the July through September period. These are: • Borrow Areas 0, E, and I; and • Relict channelo Details of the proposed FY~3 investigation program wi11 be presented to APA during May 1982. The work to be undertaken during July through September will consist of geologic mapping, drilling, laboratory testing, and data processing. (i) Borrow Area D InvestigC!tion -Objective To confirm the quantity and material properties of borrow mate- rials in Area D .. -Approach Acres proposes to use two auger type dr.i 11 rigs capable of dri 11- ing to depths of 100 to 150 feet in Area D. Disturbed and undis- turbed samples will be taken as required for laboratory testing,. Selected holes will be instrumented upon completion to monitor ground water and permafrost conditions. (if) Relict Channel Investigation -Objective To confirm the stratigraphy and material properties within the relict channel and to determine the extent of these units at depth. To perform preliminary tests to determine the hydrologic regime in the relict cnannel. . -Approach Acres proposes to use the auger drill rigs used in the Borrow Area D·to perform drilling in the relict channel. The limited capacity of these rigs preclude the drilling to the bottom of the thalweg; however, it is expected that sufficient shallow surface data will 21 •• I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I be obtained to develop a detailed investigative program for the winter FY83 dr i 11 i ng progr ~m .. (iif) G!plogic Mapping Acres will perform a lim·ited geologic mapping program in the relict channel, Borrow Area 0 and the damsite" The mapping is required to obtain recorded data for the scoping of the FY83 win~er and spring drilling programs. In addition, the geologic features identified during the 1980-81 program wi 11 be mapped for continu·ity. Detailed survey control will be provided to accurately locate these features relative to the damsite. In addition, survey contro1s will be established along the river for that which is used 1y the Becker dri 11 ing program. (iv) Laboratory T.es!ing Concurrent with the field inve~tigation, a detailed soils testing program will be implemented for the borrow area and relict channel .. To expedite the testing program, Acr-es proposes to establish a soils 1 aboratory at the Watana camp to perform routine soil t·asts. The more sophisticated tests, incluJiing cyclic triaxia.l and resonant column tests, will be performed by qualified laboratories. (v) Data Reduction To expedite the data reduction, Acres proposes that the information coming from the program be reduced and analyzed in the field. To accomplish this, Acres proposes to place a contingent of engineers and geologists who have worked extensively on the project in the field during this period. They will work in the collection and reduction of the data. It is anticipated that at the termination of the exploration program .in September, all the fiela data will be in a draft form suitable for firtal reduction and report preparation. Long-term laboratory testing will likely not be completed within the September time frame. (vi) Preparation of FY83 Winter Program As a result of the lengthy lead time required to mobilize special equipment needed for the winter program, it will be necessary to implement the planning and contractual arrangements for" this equip.- ment during July and August 1983. As part of this task, Acres pro- poses to prepare the detailed scope of work (which will be based an preliminary results obtained from activities in the relict channel} and to prepare the necessary specifications and contracts for per- forming the winter program. 22 I I a· I I I I I I I I I I. I I I I I I (c) Accomplishments and Deliverables Report . Geotechnical Field Uata (Draft) Engineering and Geotechnical Heconnaissance Report of Primary Routes FIELD EXPLORATION PROGRAM Instrumentation Monitoring Laboratory Tests on Aggregate Samples 23 Uate ~eptemoer 30, 1982 September 1~ 1982 June 20, 1982 July 20, 1982 August 20, 1982 September 20, 1982 September 15, 1982 -I I I I I I I I. I I I I I I .I I· I I I TASK 6 -DESIGN DEVELOPMENT (a} Objective Update various design aspects of project and address those design changes necessary to meet changing environmental criteria. {b) Approach/Discussion A~though not precisely defined at this time, there will be certain proposed design changes or ·investigation of various possible alternatives to the de- sign which will be required to meet changing environmental criteria. Examples of these are possible changes in access route location, el imina- tion of the pioneer road concept, intake structure changes if additional gathering of temperature data so indicates, etc. Appropriate budget has been designated for this work. (c) Schedule April 1, 1982 through September 30, 1982. 24 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I -. Subtask 7~05 -Socioeconomi~ Analysis The proposed socioeconomic studies are divided into two separate work packages. The numbers one and two are used consistently to refer to work packages eight and nine. (a) · Obje~t i ves The objectives of the two different proposed work packages are as follows; 1. Determine economic effects of Susitna Hydroelectric Project on conmer- cial, recreational, and subsistence fish and game user groups. 2. Determine the significance of the economic effects of the Project for each user group. {b) Justification Heasons for implementing the two socioeconomic work packages are as follows: 1. Economic value is a common denominator. These values will provioe a better understanding of what could be gained or lost by user groups and will facilitate the development of mitigation measures. 2. Frequently, dollar values by themselves are not meaningful. Dollar values need to be ~ut into contexts that are meaningful to both t~ose persons being impacted and those who make decisions. (c) Approach/Discussion • 1. vlork Package 8: Economic Effects of Project on Commercial, Recrea- tional, and Subsistence User Groups. To complete this work package, a determination will be made .of the economic effects on user gl·oups that could result from project-induced changes in the harvestable stocks of fish (e.g., salmon, Dolly Varden, Arctic grayling, etc.) and game (e.g., moose, caribou, brown bear!> etc.). For fish, the focus is on salmon that utilize the Susitna River and its tributaries and drainages; and f9r game, the focus is ori Game Management Unit 13. 2. Hark Package 9: Significance of Economic Effects of Project on Commer- cial, Recreational, and Subsistence User broups. Minimum resource conditions/ standaras vii 11 be determined for each user group. Past and present utilization rates and patterns will play a key role in these determinations. The minimum resource conditions for each user group will be compared to the expected resource condition {i.e., project-induced resource conditions). Differences in the conditions will be calculated on a ·per-user basis. Where losses are identified, opportunities for users to make up part or all of losses will be iden- tified. These opportunities will involve harvest of fish and game in other geographic areas and/or habitat replenishment. 26 I I I; I I I I I I I I ,_., I I I I I I I I (d) Accomplishments and Deliverables -4th Quarter FY82 \-lark Package 8 will be concentrated during this quar-ter. The ;ccomp1 ish- ments duri.ng the quarter are as follows: 1. Describe user groups and user group ut i1 i zati on of selected fish and game species (salmon, artie grayling, Dolly Varden, moose, caribou, bear, and selected furbearers). 2. Determine and describe user group characteristics. J. Determine quantity and value of harvest by location and user group. 4. Assess project-induced changes in harvestable stock and value of har- vestable stock by location and user group. 5.. Determine potential changes in unit fish and game values and implica- tion of these changes to user groups. It should be noted that in this analysis it will be assumed that, where the cost of harvest exceeds the cost of delivery of a fish or animal to a person's residence, the user will be considered a recreational user. At the end of the quarter a draft report will be available. The basic information needed to accomplish Work Package 9 will be assem- bled during this quarter. Accomplishments include: 1. Establish minimum resource conditions on. a per-user basis. 2. Describe future fish and game utilization rates 0-n a per-user basis .. 3. Compare future utilization rates to the minimum resource conditions on a per-user basis. 4. Compare fu1:ure resources va 1 ue per user to current resource value per user. 5. Identify ways to mitigate losses or ennance benefits. 6. Briefly assess impact of increasing demand for fish and game on cur- rent users. -1st Quarter FY83 Botn Work Package reports will be fina1ized by early September. Under Work Package 8 a draft report will be released for comments to various project member's. A final report will be prepared two weeks following receipt of all comments. Under Work Package 9, a draft report will be available at the end of July. The report will oe finalized four weeks from receipt of comments on the Work Pack.age 8 report. 27 I I I I I I, I I I I I I I I I I I Suotask 7.06 -Cultural ResourcesJr1vestigation (a) Objective To identify the archaeological and historical resources of the project study area and to propose mitigation measures to 'lessen the impact of ground-disturbing preconstruction and construction activities. (b) Approach (c) The Cultural Resources Investigation is designed to fulfill the cultural resource obligation for both the licensing and construction phases of this project~ through pre-license application {Phase I) and post-license appli- cation (Phase II) efforts~ Cultural resources experts at the University of Alaska lvtuseum wi 11 execute an intensive five-step research effort specifically to satisfy both state and federal legislation pertinent to cultural resources. The five steps are: (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) Preparation for field studies; Reconnaissance-level archaeological survey of P~'"Oject areas; Intensive testing of archaeological and historic sites discovered during Step (2); Final report preparation; and Registration of all collections in accoraance with state and federal requirements pertinent to the preservation of antiquities. The University·Museum will execute a multi-step research effort specif- ically designed to satisfy both state and federal legislation pertinent to cultural resources. The steps are as follows: Step 1 -t<ee.ruitment of personnel and fie.ld work staging. Clearance "Work in preparation for geotechnical testing.. Limited· scope in late June for initial crew. Step 2 -Reconnaissance-level archaeological survey of priority areas, in- cluding access corridors and potential sites identified in pre- vious work. This will be an intensive effort within the rela- tively short field season. s·tep 3 -Intensive testing of archaeological and historical sites discov- ered during earlier work. Steps 2 and 3 activities may conttnue s imu 1 taneous ly. Step 4 -Dr~+"t report pre par at ion to provide location and pre 1 iminary des- criptitm of cultural sites recorded. All steps will provide rec- ommendations for mitigation of adverse effects. Schedule June 15, 1982 through September 30, 1982. 28 I .. I I I I I I I I ·I I I I I I I I ., I Subtask 7 .. 07 -Land Use Analysis -Winter Navigation Survey (a) Objective To determine the magnitude and significance of dogsled and snowmobile use of the Susitna River in areas that could be affected by the Susitna Hydro- electric Project. To qualitatively assess the impacts of the project upon this means of transportation and associated human activities. (b) Justification The Susitna River, in its frozen winter condition, is currently used as an avenue of tran~portation by means of dogsleds and sno'hroobiles. The degree of significance of this use, however, is presently unknown.. Ice studies have predicted that during project operation the Susitna River below the Oev i 1 Canyon dam wi 11 have open -water in the winter at 1 east as far down- stream as Talkeetna. Agencies and private individuals have expressed and doct.mented their concern about the impact of the project on winter use of the river. A study based on interviews and existing information will be the first step in answering these concerns. (c) Approach/Discussion Interviews with agency personnel and private individuals (including repre- sentatives of dogsledding organizations) will yield information on the pur- poses of winter trave~--for example, trapping, recreation, travel between Trapper Creek and Talkeetna. Such information on the purpose of travel will be usea to make qualitative assessments of the potential ramifications of the preclusion of winter river travel due to changes in ice conditions .. Publ ishea and unpublished reports that might contain information on winter river use will also be sought. Available results of Susitna ice studies will be reviewed, and a qualitative assessment of the impacts on w'inter river travel due to changes in ice conditions will be made. (d) Quarterly Accomplishments and Deliverables 4th Quarter fY82 None~ -1st Quarter FY83 Interviews and data review will be performed in July and August 1982. A draft report of findings will be prepared by the end of September 1982. No results from this study will be incorporated into the license applica- tion. (As in the Feasibility Report, this impact issue will be addressed in general terms in the License Application.) · 29 I I I I I I I I I I I I I i I I I ,, I Subtask 7.07-La~d Use Analysis-Mitigation of Aesthetic Impacts .. c .. . . . . (a) Objective To develop a draft plari for mitigation of impact.s of the Susitna Hydroelec- tric Project on the aesthetic resources of the Upper Susitna River Basin. (b) Justific'ation FERC requires a license application to contain, in a report on aesthetic res·ources, "a description of mitigative-measures proposed by the applicant, including architectural design,-landscaping, and other reasonable treatment to be given project works to preserve and enhance aesthetic and related re- sources during construction and operation of proposed project facilities." The recently enacted FERC regulations place this requirement in the envi- ronmental report (Exhibit E) rather than in a separate exhibit (Exhibit V under the superseded regulations}. The· FERC 1 icense application, by June 1982, will address the mitigation of aesthetic impacts.o Because of the general and conditional nature of many of the statements to be mades how- ever, this report will not represent a "mitigation plan!' Although tne en- vironmental team has provided input to the design engineers on many issues of visual impact, sites for some project facilities were selected too late in the feasib~lity study process to permit a thorough dialogue between the des·ign engineers and the environmental tearn prior to_ the preparation of the license application. Therefore, without additional work~ the FERC require- ments for the Report on Aesthetic Resources cannot be completely addressed. Furthermore~ many aspects of project facilities will undergo refinement during continuing design studies, thereby presenting an opportunity to mit- igate some potential impacts on aesthetic resources .. {c) Approach/Discussion The essence of this effort will be coordination bet\':cen Acres and the environmental team. The preparat·ion of the draft mitigatjon plan requires substantial cooper at ion and written input from project architects and engi- neers. Project facilities that will be discussed with aesign engi.neers inclooe the architectural design and landscaping of the permanent village at Watana and the appearance and design of other facility components. The plans for res- toration of borrow areas, to reduce the degree of permanent visual 'ifli41act, also need further refinement. Further planning and design of recreation facilities {see Subtask. 7.08) will require coordination to assure that these facilities themselves are compatible with the landscape and also that unattractive aspects of project facilities do not detract from the setting of the recreation facilities. This aesthetic mitigation effort does not include the proposed transmission facilities or access road, although further mitigation of the potential aesthetic impacts associated with these facilities will eventually be 30 .I I -:1- I -1 I I I I I I -. I' I 1- I I I If' required. Visual impacts will be the primary consideration, but limited attention will also be given to noise, where appropriate, and to odor, where applicable. Emphasis will oe placed on the avoidance or minimization of permanent impacts to aesthetic resources, rather than on temporary - intrusions during the construction period, when public access will be restricted .. (d) Quarterly Accomplishments and Oeliverables -4th Quarter FY82 None. -lst Quarter FY83 The product of this work package ~/ill be a draft plan in early September for the m"itigat ion of aesthetic impacts. Review of the assembled report by Acres and approval by APA will then be required, but revision of the report prior to September 30 is n.ot antici- pated. Such revision, as well as continued coordination ana mitigation- planning, will likely be needed as part of subsequent efforts. 31 .-I- I_ I· I I I I I ·I I I' I I I I I I S~btask 7.0~ ~ Recr:ea.tion P1anniJ1.9 (a) Objective To obtain quantitative estimates of existing use of the project vicinity in the Upper Susitna River Basin and to refine the recreation plan for the Susitna Hydroelectric Project. (b) Justi.fication i::lec.ause of the subtle and dispersed nature of existing recreationa1 use in the vicinity of the proposed hydroelectric project, quantitative estimates of such use are very difficult to obtain.. With recognition that existing use is low in comparison with more accessible areas, the Phase I Plan of Study did not propose to attempt quantification. Nevertheless, ·state agency personnel have expressed their desire to know how much existing use would be affected by the proposed project. Also, FERC license application requirements include "estimates of existing and future recreational use at the project,9 in daytime and overnight visitation (recreation daysr, with a .description of the methodology used in developing these data.u To fully .:nmply with this regulation, some attempt at quantification of existing use seems necessary. Although a conceptual recreation plan has been developed, including specif- ic proposea sites for recreation facilities, many details of these facil- ities remain to be worked out. As plans are refined, the cost and schedule of recreation development should be refined accordingly. (c) Approach/Discussion A concerted effort will be made to obtain quantitative estimates of exist- ing recreational use of the Upper Susitna River Basin. A field survey of recreationists in the project area is not considered to be practical"" and will not be. attempted. Potential sources of existing data, however, will be probed. These potential sources include guiding records and other st~ tistics maintained by tne Alaska Department of Public Safety, Division of Fish and Wildlife Protection~ Air taxi operators, riverboat services. and the managers of the three lodges in the project vicinity (Stephan Lake, H'igh Lake, and Tsusena) wi 11 be contacted for information on the lavels of present recreation. Refinement of the recreation plan itself will consist of planning and pre- liminary site drawings for specific recreation facilities •.. To avoid un- necessary expPnditures, this effort will be 1 imited at this time to those facilities which form the nucleus of the recreation plan. Such site plan- ning will present agencies with a more detailed proposal· and, thus, may facilitate the approval process. This effort will include, in particular, continuing and strengthening dialogue on a technical level wit~ AUNt<, Division of Parks, and USDI, National Park Service. Coordination with the Aldska Division· of Parks is especially important in the plan refinement stages to ensure consistency in objectives and standards. Refinement of -I I I -I I •• I I I I ~I I I I I I I -I I ·the schedule and costs as-stleiated with the proposed recreation faci 1 ities ~ill also be accomplished as additional details are developed. {d) Quar~rly Accomp 1 ishments and Del iverab les -/fth Quarter FY82 None. -1st Quarter FY83 The results of this subtask will be presented in a supplementary report on recreation resources, which is scheduled to be completed in draft form in early September. Additional site planning and design of recreation facilities will be required in subsequent Phase II studies.~ ., 33 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Subtask 7 .. 10 ... Fish Ecology Baseline Studies and Analysis (a) o.bJective To perform the necessary analyses and prepare various technical reports in support of Exhibit E of FERC license application. Specific objectives to be accomp l i shed are: · -Provide a review of the feasibility report and identify data analysis deficiencies~ related data ~aps for all subjects~ the proposed ·course of action to be taken by the group to rectify deficiencies within its area of responsibility. -Recommended studies to be implemented in 19~2 to fill any data gaps. These studies would be funded within the 1982 budgets of other organiza- tions or from the allocation of discretionary resources alloted to the analysis group. Detailed study .plans will be provided for any new studies recomnended by the analysis groupe -Prepare technical reports within a variety of the subject areas in sup- port of the FERC license application. May 31, 1982, will be the cut-off date for any additional data that might be included in support documents for a September 30, 1982 1 icense appl icatione These documents will in- clude an analysis of historic, literature, and project data. They will provide a comprehensive discussion of project effects on the in stream use or resource of interest, and identify any 1982 summer studies that might provide pertinent data or information which could be amended to the application. Mitigation options will be described in as much deta.il as is presently possible, in a sequence consistent with the USFWS definition of mitigation. The limitations and the benefits for each mitigation option will be detailed. -Provide periodic technical seminars/workshops for the resource agencies through the Susitna Hydro Steering Committee. "' -Interim administrative reporting will be minimal; finished technical sup- port docl.JT1ents wi 11 be suomitted as required. -Prepare technical amendments and responses to support the FERC license application which includes 1982 summer study results. (b) Approach/Discussion The interdisciplinary group would identify project effects (positive and negative) on the i nstre am uses and resources of ·the Sus itna River with the exception of reparian vegetation and wildlife haoitat. In oaddition, the analysis group will oversee the conduct of the necessary studies and pre- pare a report on the 1 imnology and fishery potential of the impoundments. . 34 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I The analysis group will consist of five.or six profassionals familiar with the Susitna project~· with demonstra.t.ed experience in conducting field in~ vestigations, and prepare technical reports related to their respective subject areas • The group will be responsible for technical coordination of the studies, including contents of the report, their review, editing, and final report production. The following are specific r ... eports that will be prepared by this group in support of the license application. Each of these reports will be the assigned res~~nsibility of one of the member~ of the analysis group. ~ (i) Streamflows This study will involve the review of the feasibility report and evaluation of the data base supporting comments on downstream flow impacts. All existing AUF&u and R&M data will be reviewed and rec- ommendations will be made for expanding or modifying the field work proposed for the su.r!!mer of 1982. This plan will emphasize use of the summer 1982 field data for making a preliminary assessment of the effect of incremental changes in discharge on the utility of the slough habitats. An interim assessment will be prepared for submi s- sion to ±he FERC in September. Impact minimization between these extremes will also be discussed to the extent existing information will allow. ( i i) . Downstream Temperature Studies This study will involve review of the stream temperature model and temperature data available from Acres, R&Yt, and ADF&G. In addition to the review of co11111ents contained in the feasibility report, which . pertain· to project effects on stream temperatures, recommendations wi 11 be made to improve the predictive capability of the stream temperature models. An analysis will be provided, based on existing data as of May 31, 1982, which will incl u·de quantitative estimates of the effects of altered temperatures on egg incubation and emer- gence. Preliminary statements will be made regarding the antici- pated effects of altered temperatures. on the fisheries.. The 1982 winter thermal data wi 11 be included in the license application .. (iii) Water Quality Studies This study will include review of the feasibility report and will make recommendations for implementing additional study during the 1982 field season. All of the existing data sources will be com ... piled and analyzed to define baseline water quality conditions for the system. Further~ this information will be used to predict the water quality of the post-project reservoirs, 1 imnological para- meters of these reservoirs, and productivity of the reservoirs under post-project conditions. -Information of the water quality of the reservoirs will also be used to determine water quality of the 35 I: I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I down-stream releases and the probable effects such water qua1 ity con- ditions would have on the downstream fisheries resources. (iv) Fisheries Studies It is the specific intent of this element of the analysis group pro- gl·am to emphasize and d.escribe the various mitigation options avail- able to alleviate the impacts identified in the streamflow, stream temperature, and water quality study reports.. . This study ~ill involve a review of the feasibility report and will determine additional analysis and data that are needed to support the FERC license application. Additional field studies that neea to be completed during the 1982 summer field season will be desi·gned and implemented. A report wi 11 be prepared that provides a summary description of the impacts on the fisheries below Devil Canyon and discusses specific n.ethods for mitigating these impacts. A report will.also be prepared on the anticipated.limnological char·acteris- tics of the Watana Reservoir and its fishery potential .. (v) Navigation Studies This study will involve review of the section on navigation con- tained in the feasibility report and other support documents and assure that any needed data are obtained during. the summer of 1~82. The September 30 support document would prov.ide a comprehensive assessment of river navigation based on all infol~mation available by t4ay 31. Preliminary conclusions regarding effects of incremental discharge changes on -navigation wi 11 be pr·ovided for the Susitna River· .from Alexander slough to Devi 1 Canyon. (vi) Estuarine Studies This study will involve review of the section on estuarine impacts in the feasibility report~ A review of the available literature on the Cook Inlet estuary will be completed, and interviews will be conducted with biologists and physical scientists familar with estuarine problems. Information on ice format ion and prob 1 ems asso- ciated with icing in Cook Inlet will be a major area of discussion. Any field studies that will be required will be designed and imple- mented or scheduled for implementation prior to the. September 30, 1982 application oate. A report will be produced presenting all existing information and literature pertinent to anticipated estuarine impacts attributable to the project. (vii) Geomorphological and Bedload Studies This study will entail review of the existing documents and state- ments contained in the feasibility report and make recommendations for upgrading the data base and analyses supporting these state- ments. Particular attention will be given to utilizing the bedload 36 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I data collected by the USGS in an analysis which addresse~ the sta- bility of the conf1u~nce area. A report will be prepared providing an impact assessment of the project .and mitigation plans witn regard to th~se subject areas. (viii) Downstream J ce. Stud,x: This study will be limited to a review of the feasibility report and supporting documents describing the ice process models and providing a summary of statements and concerns regarding the present 1 evel of confidence in the statements contained in the feasibility report pertaining to downstream ice cover. {c) Schedule April 1, 1982 through September 30, 1982. c 37 I I I I I I I -~ I I I I I· I I I • • ,., Su_btask 7 .J.l -Coordination of Wi.ldl ife Studies (a} (b) (c) (d) Objectives The purpose of this task would be to continue the coordination effort among environmental contractors, subcontractors; and AOF&G. An associated goal would be to respond to questions by review agencies. Justification " This effort is necessary because additional wildlife and habitat data will be collected during Phase II, and there will be comments and questions from review agencies that wi 11 have to be addressed. In -addition, coordination .. of the ongoing habitat studies with the big game ~tudies will-be required .. Approach/Discussion The wi~dlife work being performed by AOF&G and subcontractors along with habitat data collected by the University of Alaska will be reviewed in order to assure that the two types of data provide the appropriate informa- tion in the proper fashion. This would be accomplished through several means, one of \'olhich .would be by obtaining the opinions of a few select species authorities. In addition, a 2-to-3-day workshop would be held in oraer to. formulate an. approach to integrate the big game data with the habitat data. Attending this workshop would be representatives fro.'lll the ADF&G study team, consultants, plant ecology subcontractors, and personnel outside the study program who have extensive experience with the habitat relationships of the appropriate big game species. Schedule This effort would continue throughout the 4th quarter of FYB2 and tne first quarter of FY83. Accomplishments will include the resolution of wi 1!rll1 if e- nabitat interdigitation problems~ the initiation of Phase II studies~ and the coordination of data collection efforts among the study participants. 38 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Subtask 7.11 -Riparian Zone of Lower Susitna River -tiird ana Beaver Surveys (a) Obj'ective The purpose of this study is to determine the species composition of birds inhabiting the riparian zone along the lower river and to obtain sufficient information on the ecology of beavers to enable a greater understanaing of how the changes in hydrology caused by the Susitna Project will affect them. (b) Justification During Phase I, data were gathered which served to document the gene~al distribution of beaver abundance from Devil Canyon to the Delta Islands. Further studies concerning specific characteristics of dens~ lodges, and food caches are needed in order to determine the degree of change that beaver populations may incur as a result of changes in flow regimes, ice conditions, and successional trends of riparian vegetation. Since changes in riparian vegetation are possible, it will also be necessary to ascertain the avian species that inhabit the ay·ea and could be affected by changes brought about by the project. With t.t')e exception of one census plot near Sherman and a cursory survey of migruting waterfowl and n~sting bald eagles, little bird study effort was expended downstream from uevil Canyon. The studies proposed herein are designed to fill this data deficiency. In addition, since portions of the lower Dasin, including the riparian zone, are under consideration for moose habitat management efforts, it will be necessary to predict what impacts any habitat changes that result from moose management will have on other faunal gr.oups. If efforts such as logging, -crushing, or burning are conducted, they will likely have more of an impact on non-target species than will changes brought about by altering the flow regime of the river. Therefore, an understanding of non-target species such as the beaver, as w~ll as the avian populations involved, will be needed, if a well-planned moose management program is to be approved. (c) Approach/Discussion Several aerial surveys would be conducted during spring to further document the extent of waterfowl use of the river and also to accurately determine the number of active bald eagle nests between Cook Inlet and Devil Canyon. During the breeding season, bird surveys woulcl be conducted in major veg- etation types in the riparian zone and immediately adjacent to the riparian zone to document the species composition and general habitat use by breed- ing birds. For this effort, selected areas from Sherman south to Cook Inlet would be used and would be chosen following a review of vegetation studies conducted during Phase I. The study of beavers along the lower Susitna River would be divided into the three river segments used previously, i.e., Uevil Canyon to Talkeetna, Talkeetna to Montana Creek, and Montana Creek to the Delta Islands. To gain a more complete understanding of the abundance of beavers, the first step wi11 be to conduct an aerial survey, using helicopters, of all 39 I I I I· I I I I I I I I I I I I I I 0 three reaches of the river. This will be done prior to breakup and again during the open water period of the year. This effort will then be fol- lowed by ground surveys, expedited through the use of a riverboat, to de- termine the relationship between bank dens, lodges, and dams to vegetation characteristics of the river. Notes concerning the location and phenology of food cache construction and utilization will also be gathered. All beaver data will be collected in such a 111anner as to enable the use of corresponding hydrology information jn order to predict what changes the project may have on the ecology of beavers in this area. (d) Quarterly Accomplishments and Oeliverables -4th Quarter FY82 1. The survey of waterfowl would be conducted at two-week intervals frorn breakup to mid-June. Data tables summarizing the results of the waterfowl survey would be prepared by July 1. 2. Bald eagle surveys would be conducted during late June, or possibly the first half of July. 3. Breeding bird surveys would begin in late rv1ay and continue through the quarter. 4. Aerial surveys for beaver would be conducted just before breakup, and surveys from the river would occur during the latter half of the quarter. -1st Quarter FY83 1. Results of the bald eagle survey would be avail able on August ltc 1982 .. 2. Breeding bird surveys would be completed by mid-July, with a prelim- inary species list of breeding birds presented by Sep,tember 1, and data analysis completed by September 30. 3. A summary of the spring beaver studies will be prepared by September 30, 1982. 40 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Subtask 7.11 -Breeding Bird and Small Marrmal Census -l!Q~r Basin (a) Objective The goal of this study would be to obtain a second year's data on breeding bird densities and a third year's data on small mammal abundance in the Upper Basin. (b) Justification The need for this effort is two-fold. First, due to annual differences in abundance, especially small mammal species which are subject to cyclic and fluctuating changes in abundance, additional data .are needed to provide statistical validity to the information used in the initial impact predic- t ions. The second, and probably more important need, is to gather suffi- cient data concerning the habitat relationship of these two faunal groups ·for use .:n planning mitigation programs for other· species. This is very important in regard to habitat management for moose. At the present time, prescribed burning is being considered as a means of improving moose habi- tat. Any such program wi 11 result in major changes in habitat with result- ing impacts on species other than moose. In order to predict and, if pos- sible, minimize negative impacts on non-target faunal groups, such as birds and small mammals, it will first be n·ecessary to properly understand the habitat requirements of all associated faunal groups. Failing to take the impacts of moose management on other species into proper consideration could be justifiably criticized. In addition to these two reasons for con- ducting additional bird and small mammal censuses, there is the fact that ~everal resource agencies have recently been focusing their attention on the habitat relationships of these faunal groups, and their review of the Susitna will probably be more favorab1e if this aspect is addressed in a scientifically valid manner. (c) Approach/Uiscussion Since study plots for birds and small mammals have already been established and co~olete habitat data collected, this effort will simply entail an addition1.l census of oreeding birds and small mammal abundance.. Breeding bird cens'"ts techniques and small mammal trapping would be conducted during the spring of 19ti2, and mammal trapping would be conducted dur·ing early fall, 1982. (d) Accomplishments and Ueliverables -4th Quarter FY82 1. During April and the first half of May, continued detailed analysis of Phase I data would be conducted. 2. Breeding bird census would start in 1 ate r~ay and continue tnrough the quarter. 41 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I • •• I -1st Quarter FY83 1. Breeding bird censuses would be completed in early July with a summarization of results available by September 30, 1982. Detailed data analysis will fGllow. 2. Fall trapping of small mammals would take place in early September with a brief tabulation of data prepared by the end of the quarter. • 42 I I I I I I I I I I l .. I I I I I Subtask 7qll -Pine Marten Densities -Upper Basin (a) Objective The goal of this study is to determine the density of pine.marten in tne vicinity of the proposed impoundments. (b) Justification Although a considerable volume of data was collected during Phase I on the abundance and distribution of this !<ey furbearer species, the effort was not designed to determine the densijty of this species. The determination of furbearer density was originally scheduled for Phase II. Although suf- ficient data exist to predict the general nature and extent of impact that will result, determining the actual numbers of pine marten inhabiting the impoundment zone would require additional survey effort. (c} Approach/Discussio~ Several techniq-ues would be used to determine the density of pine marten within the proposed ~Jatana and Devil Canyon impoundments. Aerial snow transects would be flown in the spring and fdll to further document the distribution and comparative abundance of pine marten. During summer~ a 1 imited amount of radio telemetry data would be gathered to improve the estimate of home range size that was developed during Phase I and to aeter- mine the utilization of the dominant habitat types in the impoundments. Also, an intensive mark-recapture effort would be undertaken in the domi- nant habitat type in' the Watana impoundment area as well as in the Devil Canyon impoundment area. The results of the density estimate produced from the mark-recapture effort, in conjunction with the aerial snow transect data and radio telemetry data, would permit the generation of an estimate of how many pine marten will be displaced by the two impoundments. (d) Accomplishments and Oeliverables -4th Quar.ter FYb2 The radio telemetry effort would begin during June. -1st Quarter FY83 1. Radio telemetry studies would continue. < 2. The mark-recapture effort would be conducted during July and August. 3. Since neither a spring nor a fall aerial snow transect survey will have been compl(:ted by the end of the quarter, a report presenting tentative ;:onclusions, along with data summaries, will be available by Sep_:tember 30, 1982. A pre 1 imi nary estimate of pine marten pop- ulations will be available for inclusion in the license applica- tion. 43 I I I •• I I I I I I I I I I I I I Subtask 7.11 -Refinement of Wildlife Mitigation Plan (a) Objective The purpose of this task would be to continue the mitigation planning con ... ducted during Phase I. The goals would be to add quantification to the mitigation effort and to interact with the resour~ce agencies in the devel- opment of a final plan. (b) Justification Due to a lack of both data and time, it was impossible to develop a final plan for mitigation during Phase 1. Although analysis of many options was conducted and the process of developing a plan accomplished, a considerable amount of work still remains to be done. (c) Approach/Discussion A wide variety of activities will be conducted under this effort~ Of fore- most importance will be further analysis of wildlife baseline data, as well as vegetative data, in order to quantify more precisely the degree of in- pacts and, therefore, the extent of mitigation effort required. An effort that will parallel this analysis would be the development of preliminary cost efforts for mitigation. Obviously, final estimates could not be pre- pared until the resolution of the final mitigation plan. In some cases, moose habitat management being a good example, preliminary steps would be initiated to identify candidate areas for management ef- forts. Areas in both the Upper Bas in as we 11 as the Lower Basin would be consiaered under this task. An additional effort that would fall under this work package would be con- tinued interaction and coordination with review agencies. This would pro- ·bably entail the clarification or modification of some mitigation issues. (d) Accomplishments and Deliverables This would be an ongoing effort covering the entire perioa of April through· September.. No specific report is presently envisioned for preparation dur- ing the identified time period. However, the Draft Wilalife Mitigation Plan in the June Exhibit E will be updated and refined as a result of this task .. 44 • • • • ,.. & • . . . ... . . - ~ ~· ' ' . _, I I I --I' I I ••• I I -a I I I I I I I I Subtask 7.12 -Browse Quality and Production Assessment in the BLM Prescribed Burn Are: (a) Objective To collect~baseline data necessary to measure the change in the quantity of moose browse resulting when scrub forest, mlJsl<eg, and other relatively un- productive shrublands are burned; and to establish permanent plots to moni- tor vegetation. (b) Justificat1on Manipulation of habitat through burning to promote an increase in moose browse is one of the few promising measures for mitigating loss or degrad~ tion of wildlife habitat • The extent to which Drowse production increases following a fire is un- known. Responses are positive for most habitat types; however, some re- sponses to wildfire have been negative on the Kanai National Moose Range. The duration of benefits is also undocumented. The assessment of prescribed burning can be delayed by land ownership pro- blems. Currently the BLM plans to burn an area in the Alphabet Hills region of the Upper Susitna l:Sasin. They would be responsible for the costs and manpower involved with setting and controllihg the fire. A unique and economical opportunity therefore exists for preburn nabitat and big game studies to be conducted in this area. This proposed effort is directed at the vegetation studies, with the big game studies being hand led separately by ADF&G. (c) Approach/Discussion Investigations will include vegetation mapping, plant·production~ inventor- ies, community structure, and species composition surveys, with emphasis on important browse palnts such as willow. These data will demand establish- ing permanently marked plots within the burn and beyond its borders. Data will be collected on current y~ar•s proauction available for winter use. Fire severity and intensity will a1sn be measured at each plot. Cont:s that melt .at different temperatures will be pl.ar.ed in the ffe.ld prior to the burn. (d) Quarterly Accomplishments and Deliverables -4th Quarter FY82 The burn area wi 11 be mapped during May. A draft vegetation map will be available by the end of the quarter. Preburn plots will be located dur- ing this quarter •. 45 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I ' ' -1st Quarter FYH3 The primary emphasis during this quarter wi 11 be the fina1 ization of the vegetation maps and summer sampling of the preburn plots~ Vegetation sampling including browse production and forage will be performed in July and August. By the end of the quarter, a final draft of the vegetation map will be presented; a species list of vegetation by community within the burn area will be compiled; and raw data for browse production and forage will be available. 46 I I I I I I I I ~· I I .I I ~-- I I <'. I -·< . . ·.·. ·-~· .: -"' .. : .. .-._· .. :·:·.<>:.-:..{~ .. ·: ...... _ .. ·:: ···~· .:·· .. · ... · .. ·.~ ··. · ..... :· ..... · .. · .. : ... · .. , ... _ .· .. · .. : --.~:-· ... .-·~ .:·_ Subtask 7.12 -Browse Inventory (a} Objective To measure the annual production, a rough estimate of summer use, and qual- ity of moose browse in various habitat types in the Susitna Basin and use these data to calculate carrying capacities of the moose ranges affected by the Susitna Hydroe.lectric Project. (b) Justification Browse production and use of different habitat types are key ingredients for assessing losses (impacts) and assessing the extent of mitigation (principally compensation) required for the proposed facilities. The im- plementatinn and design of a mitigation plan for wildlife will be greatly enhanced by the browse information. This study is directed at moose, which is the key big game species. (c) Approach/Discussion Available browse production, an estimate of summer use, and quality will be determined by vegetation/habitat type in the upper basin and selected down- stream areas. Plots will oe establist1ed in various vegetation/habitat typesl) both within and outside airect impact areas. Browse will be mea- sured once during the growing season. Summer production and an estimate of summer use will then be calculated. As vegetation develops during the spring season, plots will be established for spring forage production and spring phenology studies in selected areas in the Upper Basin. The forage production will involve small enclosure plots placed in areas determined by ADF&G to sustain heavy spring use by moose. ThE; phenological studies will be directed at vegetation development on south-facing slopes. During the field effort, samples will be collected for the quality analy- sis. Chemical analysis of these samples will be made at the Agricultural Experiment Station laboratories in Palmer. Analysis will be made for vari- ous components including protein content, minerals, digestibility, and tanin content. Input will be requested from ADF&G for other important com- ponents. The production and use data will be available to be used in conjunction with the annual requirements of a moose to predict the carrying capacity of each habit at type. By knowing the amount of each habit at type to be 1 ost and the amount remaining, an estimate can then be made of the project 1 s effect on carrying capacity. Several other factors, however, influence the ability of a given area to support a population. Further adjustments will have to be made to the estimated figures. Input wi 11 be required fr.om ADF&G project personnel and also from personnel involved in the research on the Kenai Mease range. 47 I I, I I I ,, I I I I I· 'I 1: I I l I I ~ In addition to the browse work~ soil samples and pellet counts will be made at each plot.. Supporting information will be obtained from these datao (d) Quarterly Accomplishments and Deliverables -4th Quarter FY82 During th·ts quarter raw data for spring phenology and forage production will be collected~ -1st Quarter FY83 The phenology and spring forage data will be summarized during this quartere As part of the chemical analysis, data will be available on the Jay Creek salt lick. Uata on browse and forage production in the upper Basin and selected downstream areas will be collected and will !Je in raw data form by the end of the quarter. 48 I I I I I I I I I I I I I •• I I 1 I I Subtask 7~12-Identifying Sites Having Potential for Wildlife Miti_9ation (a) Objective To identify habitat types and associated sites which, through va_rious techniques, could be altered to increase productivity of wildlife forage and bro,_>Jse, and to locate specific areas for mitigation purposes. (b) Justification Increasing browse production and quality to compensate for moose habitat· losses associated with the project is one of the primary mitigation op- tions. Predictabi1 ity of how and where such treatments should be appl h:d has not been developed at this time. Providing information on ·where suitaoie mitigation practices might be best applied will be needed in both the Upper and Lower Basin areas. The iden- tification of areas that cou·ld be set aside is another avenue of mitiga- tion. (c) Approach/Discussion Land use and land ownership will be investigated as a major consideration in this task. Field investigation will also be a source of informat~on. Prior experience with plant community mapping and data from the proposed browse and burning studies will al?o prove useful. Currently existing vegetation cover maps ana aerial photographs will be utilized to develop potential locations for mitigation •. The identification of lands for miti- gation purposes is primarily directed at moose mitigation, although some potential caribou mitigation lands may also be identified. Field surveys and further information will be utilized to refine this assessment. (d) Quarterly Accomplishments and Deliverables Information will be provided as needed with the final schedule oeing coord- inated with the wildlife personnel. It is anticipated that an interim re- port will be prepared by the end of September. The resuits of this task will also be utilized in updating of the Draft Wildlife Mitigation Plan for tne license applicqtion. The effort \>Jill probably be concentrated in the first quarter FY83. 49 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I •• Subtask 7.15-Revision of the License Application and Preparation of Backup Reports (a) Objective To revise various portions of the license application and to compile and organize the available reports of certain environmental disciplines into backup reports. (b) Justification Since the 1 icense application' will be prepared by June 30, 19H2, but not s·ubmitted to FERC until September 30, 1982, various revisions to the appli- cation may be required. Additional information, agency comments, change in facility design or location, etc., will influence the contents of the application. Certain of the environmental studies proposed for implementation during 1982 will be compiled as backup reports. (c} ~proach/OiS<:.!;~SSion For the revision of the license application, Acres will provide the envi- ronmental contractor with any changes in the proposed action. ·This will generally include any modifications to loc-ation and design of project com- ponents, scheduling of project events, and construction and operation spec- ifications~ Revised sections of the application will then be prepared and submitted to Acres. Refinement of the mitigation plan will be handled as a separate work package. Reports received from subcontractors will be refined into reports designed to be used as backup t"eports. Technical revirw, typing, f!diting:J drafting, and other services will be required to produce these reports. (d) Accomplishments and Deliverables Revisions to the 1 icense application as a result of cnanges in the proposed action will be performed during July and August, with revised sections s·ub- mitted to Acres by August 15, 1982. The preparation of backup reports will begin following the receipt of re- ports from subcontractors. Most of the effort will probably be performed during the July to September period. 50 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Subtask 7.16 -Response to Interrogatories (a) Objective The objective of this proposed effort is to prepare responses to questions and comments raised by agencies and other concerned groups on pertinent en- vironmental report sec·tions. (b) Justifications Following release of the Feasibility Keport and the Phase I Final Keports various questions and comments will be received. The comments will warrant a response as part of the agency contact program. (c) Approach/Discussion Response to many of the comments received by APA and Acres will require in- put from the environmental contractor~ who will provide input for questions or comments that are received pertaining to the environmental reports .. All input wi 11 be coordinated throu.gh Acres or APA. Any new information gener·- ated during this process and received in time will be incorporated into the application revision under Subtask 7.15. The level of effort needed for providing input into responses is difficult to estimate. For costing purposes, an estimate was made of the technical input required. If more extensive ~ork is required, additional funds may be requested. (d) Accomplishments and Oeliverables Technical input and letters will be provided as needed. It is anticipated that most of the comments will be received in July and August. As are- sult~ the effort will probably be concentrated in July, August, and September. 51 '"· .·::·_., ... ,: ..... :J.. . . ,,_~ ~ I I_ ;. . . ~~ I I I I I I ·I I I ' . . . ·. . .. '- • _. • # • {a} Objective (~ l ~ .__..r Update cost est1mates. in connection with the proposed elimination of the ·pioneer road and alternate access routes for inclus-ion in FERC 1 icense application~. " / . (b) t2proach/D i scus s ion Investigate. t·he elimination of t)~e pioneer road and alternative access routes and ,their impact on construction costs res.ulting from changes in · schedule. Investigation to include a review of access alternatives covered tn Task 2, plus other possible alternativesa The emphasis of inves·tigation will be to determine access that will have minimun impact on schedule and costs already developed f-or the project. The investigation will include a site. vis it and discussions with subconsul tants. ( c} Schedule May 15 through June 30~ 1982. (d) Report A suppl ementa 1 report ·Wi 11 be prepar-ed to summarize the results of the study and reconmendations for access. i' I ·, 52 ( ' ... -..... ~ \ \ J ·' . \~ { ' ' ' i ~ t { ' .,. ..... ~ ( ). i, I I I I -I I •• I I I I I I I I I I Subtask 9.04 -Develop Engineering/Construction Schedule (a) Objective (b) (c) (d) Update construction schedules in connection with the proposed elimination of the pioneer road and alternate access routes for inclusion in FERC license application. Approach/Discussio~ Si;-ilar to Subtask· 9.03 concerning cost estimates, an investigation of the elimination of the pioneer road and alternative routes and their impact on construction methodology and on-line power da~es will be made. Schedule May 15 through June 30, 1982. Report I A supplemental report will be prepared to summarize the results of the stuqy and recommendations for access. I I I I I I I ·I I I I I I I • I .I Subtask 12.07 -Document Distrfhutian (a) Objective To prepare and distribute-additional copies of the Feasibility Report and supporting reference documents to APA, state agencies and various other interested parties in accordance with J\PA directives. (b) Approach/Discussion " The additional quantity requirements and distribution of the various proj- ect documents were well over the original budgeted amount and involved the collating, binding, packing and shipping of over 5,500 separate documents and resulted in more than 12,000 pounds of material being shipped. Consid- erable overtime had to be expended, as we 11, to meet the very strict time constraints imposea. (c) Schedule March 15~ 1982, through June 30~ 1982. 54 I I I I ·I I I I I I I I I I I I I .I J Subtask 13.05 -Develop Cost Control System (a) Objective Continue with the necessary management tools and control systems for moni- toring, reporting and control of project costs for the period July 1~ 1982, through September 30, 1982. (b) Approach The cost control system will continue to use the expertise of both Acres and Moolin personnel. Both man-hours and dollars expended will be reported far the extenaed pel~iod and the tot a 1 to da.te. Completion costs wi 11 be forecasted and projected overruns/underruns will be tabulated. Reports will be submitted to APA monthly. (c) Schedule July 1, 1982, through September 30, 1982. 55