Central Valley Power Line Proposal Loses Major Utility Partner

 Earlier I sent a notice about an electric transmission line project proposed for the Central Valley that could impact thousands of acres of critical wetlands and waterfowl habitat.  Ducks Unlimited and California Waterfowl Association joined forces in asking hunters to write in opposition to the project’s crossing of major wetland areas.

 Comments in opposition to the proposed routes have had a profound impact. Yesterday, the Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD), which was the major electric utility partner in the transmission line project, pulled out of the project due to all the concerns that have arisen since we were made aware of the power line’s potential routes through critical waterfowl wintering habitat.  While we still do not know if SMUD’s withdrawal spells the end of the project, it certainly marks a major shift in its progress.

 DU staff have attended and testified at SMUD board hearings and at every hearing of the Transmission Agency of Northern California’s Board since we learned of the project, relaying concerns of hunters.