FERC approves revised boundary for Lake of the Ozarks

Osage Project Shoreline Management Plan balances FERC compliance, Ameren UE boundary mapping at the 662-foot elevation, reservoir shoreline protection, hydroelectric project licensing, and public comment to safeguard resources and support local economic uses.

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission recently approved the redrawing of the boundary line for the Osage Hydroelectric project in Missouri so that all private residences and commercial structures at the Lake of the Ozarks will now be outside the project boundary.

The new boundary line was proposed by Ameren UE, the project licensee, which has also pursued a new nuclear plant in Missouri as part of its energy portfolio.

It generally follows the 662 foot elevation except in some upstream areas where it follows higher elevations. The boundary of about 43 percent of the shoreline is already at 662 feet and would remain unchanged, except for carve-outs to ensure that existing residential and commercial structures are outside of the project boundary, while Ameren pursues tree trimming initiatives to manage reliability.

The proposal recently approved was submitted to FERC on January 31, 2012, reflecting debates like the Catawba River proposals in the Carolinas. The Commission established a 30-day comment period seeking public input on a shoreline plan on Ameren's proposal. All comments received were reviewed and are addressed in this recent decision.

This recent action stems from a requirement that Ameren develop a Shoreline Management Plan for the Osage Project. Shoreline management is a longstanding FERC initiative intended to protect the shoreline around all hydroelectric project reservoirs. A Shoreline Management Plan manages the multiple resources and uses of a project's shorelines. Striking a balance between local economic interests and protecting environmental resources, as fish and energy needs often clash in dam operations, allows the public to enjoy those resources, and is vital for the long-term success of a Shoreline Management Plan.

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