May 7, 2009
Media contact: Debbie Young, Tacoma Power natural resources manager, (253) 502-8340.
People with questions about the historic settlement agreement signed in January and future operations of the Cushman Hydroelectric Project can get answers at an open house from 4 to 6 p.m. on May 19 at the Mason County Fire District #18 building, 240 N. Standstill Drive in Hoodsport.
Tacoma Power employees will provide information about commonly asked-about topics related to Cushman Hydroelectric Project operations, including:
- Fisheries
- Recreation and wildlife
- River flows and lake levels
- The settlement agreement signed with Skokomish Tribe Anyone who wants to attend can simply show up between 4 and 6 p.m. A local caterer, Debbie Kilcup, will serve refreshments and baked treats.
History
Tacoma Power, the Skokomish Tribal Nation and other state and federal agencies signed a settlement agreement in January to resolve a $5.8 billion damages claim by the Skokomish Tribal Nation and Tacoma Power’s contested operating license for the Cushman Hydroelectric Project. The settlement recommends that the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission issue Tacoma a license to continue operating the project through 2048, and includes enhancements for fish, wildlife, river flows and other improvements. The Tribe will receive money and lands from Tacoma Power.
Cushman Project Timeline
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About Tacoma Power
Tacoma Power serves 167,000 customers in Tacoma, University Place, Fircrest and portions of Fife, Lakewood, Federal Way, Steilacoom, Fort Lewis, McChord Air Force Base and other portions of Pierce County. www.tacomapower.com
