The recent decision by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to stop a proposed hydroelectric project on the Kiamichi River in Pushmataha County was supported by one southeast Oklahoma Senator.
Sen. George Burns, R-Pollard called it a “tremendous victory” for southeast Oklahoma.
“The Kiamichi River is a cultural landmark, and a treasured natural resource for our communities. I commend the Commission for listening to the people of this region and recognizing the dangers of this ill-conceived project,” he said in a prepared statement released this week.
“This project threatened not only the environment and wildlife of southeastern Oklahoma, but also the trust and cooperation built through the historic Water Settlement Agreement. Oklahoma’s water should not be compromised for the benefit of outside interests. We must remain vigilant in protecting our land, our people, and our future.”
The proposed project by the Southeast Oklahoma Power Corporation (SEOPC), was officially halted after FERC determined that the company’s updated Proposed Study Plan (PSP), submitted on March 17, was still insufficient to proceed with planning. The Commission’s ruling follows widespread public opposition and a formal letter of protest from Sen. Burns in October.
In his October letter to FERC, Sen. Burns urged the Commission to deny the proposal, highlighting its potential to harm endangered species, fish and wildlife, and to disrupt the historic, cultural, and recreational fabric of the region. He also raised concerns about the project’s possible violation of the 2016 Water Settlement Agreement between the State of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City, the Choctaw Nation and the Chickasaw Nation.
