Nearly 20 studies were conducted in 2012. The Susitna-Watana Hydro team also submitted its official Proposed Study Plan to the Federal Energy & Regulatory Commission (FERC) in July, 2012. The study plan proposes an additional 58 studies addressing everything from fish, wildlife, aquatics and geology to economic, cultural, aesthetic and recreational disciplines.

The public, governmental agencies and private entities were given an opportunity to submit study requests to FERC. Of the 59 study requests submitted by these various individuals and organizations, the Alaska Energy Authority has adopted 58 in its Proposed Study Plan document.  A Revised Study Plan will be filed this fall with FERC’s final determination anticipated at the beginning of 2013.