PACIFICORP/UAMPS ST. GEORGE SWITCHYARD & 138/345 KV POWER LINE UPGRADE PROJECT, UT

In January 2004, PacifiCorp, as the designated representative for the project, proposed the St. George Switchyard (SGSY) and Red Butte/Central to SGSY/Middleton Transmission Line Upgrade Project to the Bureau of Land management (BLM), the US Forest Service (USFS), the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), and the Washington County Habitat Conservation Advisory Committee. JBR was retained by PacifiCorp to conduct all aspects of the environmental permitting process and obtain the required approvals.

JBR’s team of GIS, biology, and NEPA specialists:

• conducted intensive mapping and baseline habitat assessments for the proposed new disturbance areas;
• prepared information for agency reviews and discussion related to the issues surrounding critical habitat for the desert tortoise;
• prepared an Environmental Assessment, a Biological Assessment, and a Biological Evaluation;
• conducted all of the necessary biological field surveys (e.g., special status species, vegetation, wildlife, raptors, and song birds); and
• provided construction monitoring to ensure compliance with the Biological Opinion issued by USFWS and other agency terms and conditions.

JBR has excellent working relationships with both the decision makers and proponents as evidenced by the repeat project work in this area and with the individuals involved.

• Eric Holt - Division Manager -