The Tennessee Valley Authority is asking for public input on potential environmental impacts of proposed alternatives for a permanent system to manage water flows from processes at its Gallatin Fossil Plant.
The options to be considered are detailed in a Supplemental Environmental Assessment available at www.tva.com/nepa. The document explains two basic options - to continue operation of an interim flow management system on a permanent basis, with minor modifications, or to build new process water basins for use along with the existing system. Both options would be supported by the completion of a new bottom ash dewatering facility, which will create dry bottom ash for storage in an approved on-site landfill.
TVA’s preferred option in the SEA is the “no action” alternative, which means the interim flow management system would be modified into the permanent solution and connected with the bottom ash dewatering facility. Under the no action alternative, closure of the bottom ash pond would not be dependent on the flow management system, but would happen after the dewatering facility is built.
This project supports TVA’s commitment to convert to dry storage of CCR at Gallatin and across the system, as well as a consent agreement with the state to close and remove ash stored at Gallatin to an onsite dry landfill, said officials.
TVA invites public input and comments through Oct. 9. Comments can be made online at www.tva.com/nepa, by email to arfarless@tva.gov, or by mail to Tennessee Valley Authority, ATTN: Ashley Farless, GAF BADW SEA, 1101 Market St., BR2C-C, Chattanooga, TN 37402. All comments received will become public record, including names and addresses, and will be considered in the development of the final SEA later this year.
TVA is also hosting a public open house to provide more information on this SEA and other topics related to Gallatin Fossil Plant. The event will be on Tuesday, Sept. 24, from 5-7 p.m. at the Gallatin Civic Center, 210 Albert Gallatin Avenue in Gallatin.