The Forest Lake Dam, located along the AuTrain River in Michigan, is significant for the nearby campground and wildlife refuge as it is appealing to both fishers and tourists—which is why what happens next to the dam has raised concerns for the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR), according to a report by Marquette WLUC.
In the summer of 2020, Renewable World Energies (RWE), the owner of the dam, submitted a request to surrender it. However, in February this year, the company withdrew the request.
Michigan DNR U.P. Field Deputy Stacy Welling Haughey stated, “The State of Michigan Department of Natural Resources does not really have a large role in what is happening there, but we obviously have a big interest in all of the natural resources that the dam involves.
Consequently, the Federal Energy Regulatory Committee (FERC) requested clarification regarding three primary concerns with the company’s surrender application withdrawal submitted on February 27.
First, FERC noted that the company did not file a stand-alone notice of withdrawal. Second, discrepancies arose over the amount of time needed to plan for the required improvements. According to a plan RWE submitted to FERC, construction on the dam would commence on June 1, 2025.
Third, FERC stated that delaying the repairs is unacceptable and any modifications to the water level necessitate changes to the license. Welling Haughey expressed concerns about the repair progress, stating that it impacts the State Forest Campground.
RWE was expected to respond to FERC’s three questions within 30 days after receiving them, which would have been April 28. When asked about the project’s current status, RWE Vice President Jason Kreuscher revealed in a statement that they have not officially rescinded the surrender application.
“While the letter you reference indicates a surrender withdrawal, RWE has not officially withdrawn our surrender application with FERC. We are currently working to find ways to remain generating power and work to meet FERC’s dam safety requirements,” Kreuscher said.
On April 27, RWE requested an extension until June 1 to respond to FERC’s three questions. However, in March this year, Harris Energy Group, an affiliate of RWE, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. Despite this, Kreuscher asserts that the bankruptcy filing will not affect the operations or plans for the AuTrain project.
“Harris Energy Group, and subsidiaries, has voluntarily filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. This is a corporate restructuring tool that will have no effect on the operations or plans for the AuTrain project,” Kreuscher said.
Due to uncertainties surrounding the project, specifically the dam’s water level, the DNR has halted fishery activities at the basin.
Michigan DNR Lake Superior Basin Coordinator Patrick Hanchin explained, “In 2022 we decided to cease walleye stocking in the impoundment due to some uncertainties around water level management related to the hydroelectric facility.” Hanchin also mentioned that the DNR is pausing a survey of the current fish population.
As for private campground owners and operators, the uncertainty surrounding the Forest Lake Dam project may impact their businesses, as modifications to the dam’s water level could affect fishing and recreational activities for their patrons.
Maintaining a healthy ecosystem and ensuring the safety of the dam are crucial for these businesses to continue attracting tourists and providing a quality experience.