HUNGRY HORSE — Federal officials are seeking public comment on the power plant at Hungry Horse Dam as they move forward with a proposed modernization of the plant.
The Missoulian reports the Bureau of Reclamation, which operates the dam and power plant, is looking for the public’s help in identifying concerns that should be addressed in an environmental assessment for the project. The assessment is scheduled to be released next summer.
The bureau is proposing an overhaul of the power plant with major upgrades and modernization of the generating units, which have been in service since the dam opened in 1953.
The bureau is also proposing a “no action” alternative that would have the power plant continue to operate under existing protocols.
Officials say the overhaul project would help alleviate safety concerns.