Snake River Basin Environmental Program

Abstract

The Snake River Basin Environmental Program was designed to evaluate existing environmental data with respect to potential geothermal development at eight Known Geothermal Resource Areas (KGRAs) in Idaho. State and federal agencies, public interest groups, consulting groups, and universities participated in the DOE program. Final reports for the program are intended to be utilized as reference documents and planning tools for future environmental studies. Evaluation of the data base is adequate of small scale direct use developments. The potential impacts of development on water quality and water supply are the primary environmental concern. Preliminary data suggest that subsidence and induced seismicity may be a problem in several of the KGRA's. Sensitive animal species and habitats have been identified an each area; development of the Castle Creek KGRA ma be restricted due to the Birds of Prey Natural Area. Two workshops provided public input on concerns and land use planning for geothermal development in Idaho. Based on the data evaluation and public input, a plan for supplementing the existing environmental data base was prepared.