Weigh in on Nuyakuk Hydroelectric proposal studies

Below we have included some updates regarding the Nuyakuk Hydroelectric Project proposed by the Nushagak Cooperative. 

What is happening?

The Nushagak Cooperative completed a second year of scientific studies throughout 2024 to determine if the project is feasible and to evaluate potential impacts. 

What is needed from communities?

Community members are encouraged to learn about these studies and give feedback on the study process and project’s potential impacts this winter. 

Where can I review the studies?

  1. Read the report: The Nushagak Cooperative has released a report describing the results from their studies, which launched a public comment period and public meetings. The Updated Study Report (USR) can be found at this link and is housed on the Nuyakuk Hydro website

  2. Attend a meeting (in person or virtual): Nushagak Cooperative will be presenting updates on the proposed project and results of the 2023 & 2024 study seasons. There will be two opportunities to join, either in-person or virtually. The meetings will be held in Dillingham on January 15, 9AM-4PM, and January 16, 2PM-8PM, at the Nushagak Cooperative Boardroom (800 Kenny Wren Road, Dillingham). Both meetings will present the same information. For those unable to travel in-person, the meetings will be available via Microsoft Teams. USR Meeting links and phone numbers are listed at the end of this page.

Check back for an opportunity to submit a comment!

We encourage you to provide official comments to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, which is the agency in charge of determining whether to grant Nushagak Cooperative’s license for this project. The deadline to submit comments to FERC is February 19, 2025. 

Within your comment, we encourage you to answer one or all of the following questions: 

  1. Did Nushagak Cooperative’s studies adequately evaluate the risks of the project?

  2. Do the findings of the studies suggest the project would have unacceptable adverse effects? If so, in what areas?

  3. Is Nushagak Cooperative communicating in a manner such that the community is able to understand the status and meaningfully provide input?

UTBB is committed to providing information and resources to help you understand the studies, write, and submit your comments. Please check back soon for more information and instructions on how to submit a comment. 

How can I get help writing a comment?

UTBB is working with a team of technical experts to review the 1,300 page report. We will follow up with you once the team has completed its review of the report in order to provide key insights for building your comments. 

Please feel free to reach out toany of our staff members if you have any questions, concerns, or would like more information. Quyana!

Currently, UTBB is neutral on the proposed Nuyakuk Hydroelectric project.

UTBB is committed to the protection of fish habitat and promoting transparent public and Tribal engagement in the regulatory process. The potential benefits and impacts of the proposal are still being studied. In order to put UTBB’s “fish first” commitment in action, we are working with a team of technical experts to review the ongoing studies on potential impacts and benefits of the project. 

We recognize the energy crisis and fully support the transition to sustainable energy. We also recognize that the lifeblood of Bristol Bay is salmon, and good runs require good habitat. The UTBB Board of Directors will only support energy projects that do not increase long-term risk and can demonstrate no negative impact on salmon and their habitat.


Public Meeting Dial-In Info

January 15, 9AM-4PM 

Microsoft Teams Need help?

Join the meeting now

Meeting ID: 266 679 555 293

Passcode: Ha2c9YB2

Dial in by phone

+1 929-346-7316,,338726968# United States, New York City

Find a local number

Phone conference ID: 338 726 968#

January 16, 2PM-8PM

Microsoft Teams Need help?

Join the meeting now

Meeting ID: 246 866 333 092

Passcode: PG9F4K7X

Dial in by phone

+1 929-346-7316,,727971616# United States, New York City

Find a local number

Phone conference ID: 727 971 616#