Letter from the Secretary of the Dams Print Share
EnvironmentLetter from the Secretary of the Dams
The Federal Department of Dams THE GOVERNMENT Washington, DC
Chairman of the Senate Committee on Public Projects Dear Mr./Madam Chairman: As you requested, we have completed a preliminary review of the proposed hydroelectric dam on the Beautimous River in Simmeon, New Mexico. We have evaluated a few of the many issues and parameters your committee may want to consider in its deliberations on the need for the project. Your committee may wish to have us consider additional issues. Project The proposed dam will span the Beautimus River three miles up-river from Simmeon, New Mexico. The estimated cost of the dam is $10 million, which under federal policy would be split between the federal government and the state or city government. The dam will create a lake of approximately 3 square miles. Much of the land that will be flooded is currently owned by a number of private citizens. Possible locations of the dam further upstream would cost substantially more than $10 million. Hikers, birdwatchers, fishermen and campers currently use the area that would be covered by the lake. White water rafting is a popular activity in the spring, but would not be practical after the dam is built. However, the new lake could be provide new recreational activities, including picnicking, boating and lake fishing. Electric Power Output Based on average water flows in the river and the projected height of the dam, the project should produce about 10 megawatts of low-cost hydroelectric power, sufficient to power 10,000 homes or businesses, at one half the cost of power generated from coal-fired or nuclear power plants. Environmental The dam will significantly alter the flows in the Beautimus River. The flow will become nearly constant year round, eliminating higher flows during spring and low-water levels in the summer. The temperature in the river water will be lower, possibly eliminating the native Mimbres trout. Though further study is needed, the area to be covered by the lake may harbor several endangered bird species, including red-eyed jay. There is some scientific evidence that changing the seasonal variation in river flow could harm the existing bosque, mostly cottonwood trees, along the river in Simmeon. Drinking Water Simmeon currently has sufficient supplies of drinking water for its citizens; however, the water stored in the dam would be needed if there is a large increase in the population or if there was a severe drought. Agriculture The water stored in the lake could be used to irrigate new farm areas to grow corn and alfalfa in the area down river of Simmeon. This area could also support several new dairies. However, water diverted for new agricultural uses could limit future growth opportunities in communities down river of Simmeon. Jobs Power from the hydroelectric plant could help attract new businesses and jobs for citizens in Simmeon. A computer chip manufacturing company has expressed interest in locating in the town. Historic Ruins There are several small ruins of Native American and early Spanish settlements in the area that will be covered by the lake. The settlements are thought to date from the period of 1400 - 1750. We would be happy to respond to any additional questions your committee might have. Sincerely, Secretary of the Department of Dams
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