Date: December 16, 2009
The National Park Service (NPS) today announced the availability of the Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) for the Page-LeChee Water Supply Project Environmental Assessment (EA).
A FONSI is the final environmental compliance document required for the Page-LeChee Water Supply Project. The FONSI, which was signed by Glen Canyon National Recreation Area Superintendent Stan Austin and NPS Intermountain Region Director Mike Snyder, indicates that the implementation of the preferred alternative described in the EA would not constitute an action meeting the criteria that normally requires preparation of an Environmental Impact Statement.
The purpose of the Page-LeChee Water Supply Project is to create a new pumping station and conveyance pipeline to deliver water from Lake Powell to the City of Page’s existing water supply system. The City of Page also provides drinking water to the Navajo Nation Chapter of LeChee. The city’s current water supply delivery system dates from the construction of Glen Canyon Dam between 1957 and 1964. The system is vulnerable due to its age. This project would provide a reliable back-up water delivery system.
The EA evaluated two alternatives: a no action alternative, and a preferred alternative that is the selected course of action. The preferred alternative would site a water pumping station near the Chains recreation area. Up to six boreholes would be drilled to an elevation of approximately 3,373 feet into Lake Powell to supply water. A conveyance pipeline would be constructed and placed along the Highway 89 corridor to a tie-in point with the city’s existing water supply system and water treatment plant.
The Page-LeChee Water Supply Project EA was made available for public comment during a 30-day period from April 22 through May 21, 2009. The FONSI incorporated public comments into the final EA document. The final EA and FONSI are both available online at http://parkplanning.nps.gov
Paper or CD copies may be obtained by writing to Superintendent, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, C/O Page-LeChee Water Supply Project, PO Box 1507, Page, AZ 86040.
