Nuyakuk Hydro Proposal
Nushagak Cooperative has proposed a hydroelectric Project on the Nuyakuk River Falls northwest of Koliganek.
The area is entirely within the Wood-Tikchik State Park, the largest state park in the country. The Nushagak Cooperative seeks to develop the project in order to provide electricity to Dillingham, Aleknagik, Koliganek, New Stuyahok, Ekwok and Levelock.
Read more on Nushagak Cooperative’s Nuyakuk Hydro Website
What’s the latest?
December 2024
The Nushagak Cooperative completed a second year of scientific studies throughout 2024 to determine if the project is feasible and to evaluate potential impacts. Community members can learn about these studies and give feedback on the project and its potential impacts this winter.
The Nushagak Cooperative has released a report describing the results from the studies, which launched a public comment period and public meetings.
Please stay tuned for upcoming opportunities to give input.
Click here to download the full report from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission eLibrary.
January, 2025: Attend an Informational Meeting
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).
Both meetings will present the same information. For those unable to travel in-person, the meetings will be available via Microsoft Teams and are available at the bottom of the project web site page.
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.