The California State Water Resources Control Board announced on September 23, 2026, the release of a Notice of Preparation (NOP) and upcoming scoping meetings for an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) concerning the Bishop Creek Hydroelectric Project. This formal action initiates the environmental review process for the relicensing of Southern California Edison Company’s (SCE) Bishop Creek Hydroelectric Project, which is designated as Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) Project No. 1394. The Board is inviting public participation to help define the scope of the environmental analysis for what is referred to as the Proposed Project.
The NOP serves as an official notice that an Environmental Impact Report will be prepared. This report is a crucial document in the relicensing process, designed to identify and assess the potential environmental effects that could arise from the continued operation of the Bishop Creek Hydroelectric Project. The scoping meetings provide a structured opportunity for the public, agencies, and other interested parties to provide input on what specific environmental topics and potential impacts should be thoroughly examined within the EIR. This early input helps ensure that the environmental review is comprehensive and addresses community concerns.
Two virtual scoping meetings have been scheduled to facilitate public engagement. Both meetings will take place on Thursday, October 15, 2026. The first session is set to begin at 12:00 p.m., providing an opportunity for daytime participation. A second meeting is scheduled for the same day, starting at 5:30 p.m., to accommodate those who may be unavailable during standard business hours. These meetings are intended to gather perspectives that will directly inform the scope and content of the upcoming Environmental Impact Report. Registration is required to attend these virtual sessions, though specific registration details are not provided here.
In addition to attending the virtual meetings, individuals and organizations are encouraged to submit written comments on the Notice of Preparation. These written submissions are due by 4:00 p.m. on October 30, 2026. This deadline allows for a period of review and consideration of the NOP document before the scope of the EIR is finalized.
Comments can be submitted through two methods. Electronic submissions can be made via email to [email protected]. For those preferring traditional mail, comments should be directed to the State Water Resources Control Board, Division of Water Rights, Water Quality Certification Program, P.O. Box 2000, Sacramento, CA 95812. Both methods offer avenues for the community to provide formal input on the environmental review process.
The State Water Resources Control Board oversees the water quality certification program, which is an integral part of federal hydroelectric project relicensing efforts. By issuing the NOP, the Board is moving forward with its responsibilities to ensure that the continued operation of the Bishop Creek Hydroelectric Project complies with state water quality standards and environmental regulations.
For those interested in reviewing the underlying documents and gaining a deeper understanding of the relicensing effort, relevant materials are available for public viewing online. The State Water Board’s Projects webpage hosts these documents, allowing for convenient access to official notices and related information regarding the Bishop Creek Hydroelectric Project Relicensing. The timely submission of comments and participation in the scoping meetings are vital steps for local residents and stakeholders to contribute to this important environmental review process.