Every 30 to 50 years state and utility-owned hydropower dams must renew their operating licenses through the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. Because most hydropower dams were constructed well before the enactment of our nation's environmental laws, the hydropower relicensing process is a unique opportunity to evaluate how projects impact the natural environment and the public's right to clean, accessible rivers. This five-year process of bringing hydropower dams up to modern environmental standards involves public input, scientific studies, and legal expertise. New licenses require dam owners to take practical measures that improve habitat for fish, wildlife, reduce impacts to water quality, and increase opportunities for public recreation.

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Restoring Rivers Through the FERC Licensing Process

Major Players in the Relicensing Process

The Licensing Process

Still interested in finding out more about the FERC Licensing Process? Read the rest of CHRC's Rivers of Power, the document the links about come from.