11.13.19

Hoeven: Reclamation Begins EIS Process for Eastern ND Water Supply Project

Timeline for Final EIS Keeps Project on Track for Completion

WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven, a member of the Senate Energy and Water Development Appropriations Committee, today announced that the Bureau of Reclamation (BOR) has approved the notice of intent, beginning the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) process for the Eastern North Dakota Alternate Water Supply (ENDAWS) Project. Hoeven spoke with Mike Black, BOR Great Plains Regional Director, who indicated that BOR will work in a collaborative manner to ensure the timely completion of the EIS, which under Departmental guidance, is targeted for completion by November 13, 2020. This marks an important step towards the completion of the project and maintains the Garrison Diversion’s timeline for the project. 

BOR today published in the federal register its notice of intent to prepare the EIS for the ENDAWS project. The ENDAWS project would allow for additional water to be released from Garrison Diversion facilities to serve as an alternate water source for the Red River Valley and Central North Dakota Water Supply projects. The Garrison Diversion estimates that the alternative water supply would reduce project costs by $200 million while also saving on operating costs by using the Snake Creek Pumping Station to pump water. The EIS will help advance an additional contract to bring the total water allowed from the Garrison Diversion up to 165 cubic feet per second (CFS). 

“The ENDAWS project will help ensure an affordable and reliable water supply for half of North Dakota’s population,” said Hoeven. “I spoke with Regional Director Black about the importance of completing this project on time, and moving the EIS forward is a critical step. Under the Department’s guidance, BOR will aim to complete the EIS within one year, which will help keep the project on track.”

A final EIS is necessary before BOR may move forward with construction of ENDAWS project features, issuance of a water repayment contract for Garrison Diversion Unit facilities, and the issuance of permits to construct and maintain ENDAWS facilities on BOR rights-of-way. 

Hoeven has worked both as governor and U.S. Senator to advance water infrastructure projects for North Dakota, including an initial contract for 20 CFS from the Missouri River to benefit water supplies in the central and eastern parts of the state.  

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