September 2007 Issue

Council Releases Analysis of the Northwest's Carbon Dioxide Footprint

The Council released for public comment an analysis of CO₂ production from the Northwest's power system. The analysis shows that meeting demand for electricity in the Northwest with aggressive development of new energy conservation and wind power will help reduce the growth of the region's CO₂ emissions. The analysis looks at several scenarios, including how removing the lower Snake River dams would affect CO₂ production, and how summer spill at the lower Snake River and lower Columbia River dams affects CO₂ production. The comment period ends October 19.

Five Innovative Fish and Wildlife Projects Are Approved for Funding

The Council approved funding for five fish and wildlife projects for fiscal years 2008 and 2009. The innovative project solicitation is intended to encourage creative approaches to fish and wildlife protection. The approved projects will test new methods and technologies to directly benefit fish and wildlife in the Columbia River Basin.

Fish and Wildlife Program Amendment Process to Begin in November

Adhering to the schedule approved at its April meeting, the process to amend the Council's Fish and Wildlife Program will start on November 1. Despite suggestions from stakeholders to delay the process in order to integrate the actions from the next federal biological opinion, the Council decided to keep to its original schedule, with the option of extending the submittal deadline, if necessary. The process is expected to conclude at the end of 2008.

Coming Up

• October 16-18: Council meeting in Missoula

For more, visit www.nwcouncil.org.

This monthly newsletter has news from Council meetings, including recent decisions, news from state offices, and updates on energy and the environment.
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