The Licensee consults with agencies about issues that need to be addressed and studies that need to he conducted. A public meeting is conducted by the licensee to identify issues. Public input is invited.
Consultation continues between the licensee and appropriate regulatory agencies.
The commission begins the environmental review process and solicits public comments on the draft environmental documents. The project may or may not receive 401 water quality certification - a decision subject to protest by the public. FERC issues or denies the license. Both the licensee and the formal intervenors can protest the FERC decision. Working to protect rivers for more than 25 years, it has played a key environmental role in the regulatory process governing hydroelectric operations in the state.