In April 2024, as required by law as part of the hydroelectric facility relicensing proceedings, Great River Hydro applied for 401 Water Quality Certification in the states of New Hampshire and Vermont. This certification ensures that operation of the hydro facilities will comply with state-level water quality standards and not adversely impact or diminish water quality and designated uses of the river.

The Connecticut River Conservancy will be hosting a series of informational meetings in NH to describe the 401 certification process, discuss what water quality standards are involved, and clarify how the public may participate in this process to ensure your public trust is protected. 

Information on the hydro facilities and an overview of the Great River Hydro application for 401 Water Quality Certification in NH will also be covered, with an opportunity for all attendees to ask questions and get additional information about the 401 Water Quality Certification process and timeline. 

These meetings are informational only. An official public hearing and comment period will be held at a later date after a draft certification is issued. 

Informational meetings will be hosted at the Kilton Library in West Lebanon (Aug 12), the Walpole Town Hall (Aug 14), and the Hinsdale Community Center (Aug 15) from 5-7pm. We encourage in person attendance but a virtual link can be sent for those who wish to use it. 

Please RSVP on this page, and if you have any questions reach out to Kathy Urffer, kurffer@ctriver.org