The LPP Project Minimizes Environmental Impacts

Extensive environmental studies have been conducted for the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Lake Powell Pipeline (LPP) to evaluate impacts from the construction, operation and maintenance of the project. The studies have found that the LPP project will have very few permanent environmental impacts. The 140-mile route has been designed to mostly follow existing roads, alignments or designated utility corridors to minimize disturbances to natural, cultural, historic and archeological resources.

Plus, recent design modifications have reduced the environmental footprint even further. Following federal regulators’ recommendations, the Utah Division of Water Resources eliminated two reservoirs designed to generate hydropower at peak demand. While the project will still be able to produce hydropower using inline facilities, the changes reduce impacts on both desert tortoise habitat and waters of the U.S. The graphic below outlines the resources that were studied and the actions that will be taken to protect the environment and resources during construction and operation of the water pipeline. The project has been planned to avoid or minimize both temporary and permanent environmental impacts.