Date: 7/22/26 9:24 am From: Debbie Nichols <00000ac330505886-dmarc-request...> Subject: Re: Help Save Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary from devastating hydroelectric proposal-comments needed by Monday July 27
I sent my comments in to PROTECT this area. I'll never forget seeing "the
pink one" (Ross's Gull) in 1991 and the Smew a few years later.
Debbie Nichols
Hannibal, MO
On Tue, Jul 21, 2026 at 9:11 AM Jim W Bensman <
<00000ab9131110f6-dmarc-request...> wrote:
> Hope it is OK to post alerts on this list
>
> There is a proposed hydroelectric facility at the Mel Price Lock and Dam
> that will have direct, significant adverse effect on approximately 325
> species of migratory birds and will be a paddling hazard along with a major
> eyesore for the extensive educational and recreational use of the area. You
> can help prevent ill-planned transmission lines from crossing prime
> protected migratory bird habitat along the Mississippi river at the
> Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary on the Missouri side of the Mississippi
> River. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission is soliciting comments on
> the Scoping Documents, with a 4pm deadline on Monday, July 27, 2026.
>
> Here are some items to consider when you submit comments:
> 1. The Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary (Riverlands) is a protected
> area which helps resident birds and migratory birds, including endangered
> species. The Mississippi flyway is a major flyway which is essential to our
> country's natural heritage. This federally protected area includes bays,
> wetlands, riparian forests and grasses. Massive High-Power transmission
> lines would run from the Hydro project down Riverlands Way, cross over
> Ellis
> Bay, cross over Ellis Island, and head to Illinois. The towers and lines
> would destroy wetlands, degrade habitat, and expose birds to increased
> collision risks across the area.
> 2. Modifications to the river, intended to direct flow to the
> turbines,
> will directly affect water levels in the prime habitat of Ellis Bay. This
> could impact shorebirds and waterfowl that rely on these levels, as well as
> recreational activities such as birding, fishing, and kayaking.
> Additionally, the "in-river" hydropower facility has the potential to alter
> the hydrology of nearby Ellis Bay, leading to broader impacts beyond the
> bay
> itself. The Riverlands wetlands and bays could experience increased risks
> of
> low water levels, threatening the overall ecosystem.
> 3. If you recreate (birdwatch, hike, canoe, kayak, fishing, etc.) in
> or
> near Riverlands, mention that the transmission lines would mar your
> enjoyment of the area and diminish your appreciation of the protected
> natural habitat. Also, the reduction of an adjacent parking lot and boat
> landing would severely hamper recreational use.
> 4. Key requests:
> a. Reroute transmission lines away from Riverlands to avoid habitat
> disruption or destruction and reduce bird risks.
> b. Protect the waters of Ellis Bay and all flows which now enrich the
> Riverlands area.
> c. Study the consequences of all proposed actions on current
> conditions
> BEFORE granting a license for the project. Conduct an Environmental Impact
> Statement, including new studies to assess current conditions and impacts.
> d. Reduce visual impacts and protect recreational access, including
> Maple Island Public Boat Access and adjacent parking lot size.
> e. Mitigate for any damage done to habitat, water flow, or wildlife.
> For individuals to comment on this important resource, follow this simple
> three-step process:
> 1. Go to: https://ferconline.ferc.gov/quickcomment.aspx fill out the
> form and you will immediately get an email with a link to comment.
> 2. Click on the link and enter P-15257 where it says "enter docket
> number."
> 3. Then enter your comments for the 3rd choice: No. 15257-002
>
> For organizations to comment on this important resource, go to:
> https://ferconline.ferc.gov/eRegistration.aspx fill out the form and you
> will immediately get an email with further instructions
>
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--
Debbie Nichols
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