Low flow at Smith Mountain Lake approved by FERC

Appalachian Power Company received approval Wednesday to continue discharging minimum outflows from its hydroelectric dam at Smith Mountain Lake and Leesville Lake.

An order issued by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission granted an extension of a 45-day variance that was set to expire today. APCo asked for the extension last month due to low inflow because of dry conditions.

Company spokesman John Shepelwich said Wednesday in an e-mail that the firm is pleased with FERC’s decision.

“The order will allow further conservation of water in Smith Mountain Lake and meet requirements downstream until more sustained flow into the project is realized,” Shepelwich said.

The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality approved the variance in July, but inflow continued to be low in August, causing the company to alter its variance after consulting with lake stakeholders.

The lake’s current level is still a few feet below normal pond, according to FERC’s order. The variance would last until the level returns to full pond.

The company is required to report back to FERC every 30 days on existing flow conditions and reservoir levels, starting Sept. 30.

Comments on the variance can be submitted to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission FERC through Oct. 23. Filings should include the project number (P-2210). Documents should be filed to Kimberly D. Rose, secretary of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, 888 First Street NE, Washington, DC 20426. For more information, call (202) 502-8416 or email .