FERC seeks answers from Lake Lynn Generation on allegations of poor park maintenance

Jan. 19—MORGANTOWN — The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission has heard the allegations about Lake Lynn Generation's poor maintenance of Cheat Lake recreational sites and is seeking answers.

FERC wrote to Lake Lynn Generation on Wednesday, noting the allegations and providing a list of questions to be answered within 30 days.

"We received several allegations concerning the lack of oversight and maintenance associated with recreation facilities required ... of the project license and the approved recreation plan for the Lake Lynn Hydroelectric Project, " FERC wrote.

"The information we received indicates that you are not adequately removing garbage and debris and appropriately maintaining facilities, " FERC continued. "You have a continued obligation to maintain your project recreation facilities under your approved recreation management plan and under [federal code ]."

As we've reported, FERC is reviewing Lake Lynn Generation's application to renew its Lake Lynn Hydroelectric Project license. As part of the application, Lake Lynn Generation /Eagle Creek Renewable Energy propose to remove 307.1 acres surrounding Cheat Lake from federal protection. FERC held a public hearing in Morgantown on the case on Sept. 25.

They say they will make no changes to operations or facilities. Lake Lynn proposes to adjust the project boundary to include only lands necessary for operation and maintenance of the power station. They will not sell any land. The eight non-contiguous areas in the boundary proposal will allow them to adjust the project boundary to follow the contour line of the high reservoir elevation, 870 feet, and bring all parts of the boundary into the highest contour line.

But the proposal has generated significant skepticism and opposition from the public and various groups with an interest in the lake—who fear the land may in fact be sold off to developers. The letters of concern also include criticism of the company's maintenance of the public access areas.

In its letter, FERC reminds the company that it is responsible for providing 13 recreation sites—among them, Tailrace fishing area, Cheat Lake Park and Trail, Sunset Beach Marina boat launch ; a picnic area, several viewing areas and parking lots.

FRC wants answers on these topics:

— A detailed statement regarding the frequency of trash and debris removal and mowing at each recreation site.

— A detailed statement regarding the frequency of general ground maintenance at each recreation site.

— An explanation for the out-of-service toilets, sinks, and water fountains at the Cheat Lake Park ; and its plan and schedule for getting them back in service before the upcoming recreation season.

— The storage and /or placement of sand over storm drains within various other areas of the recreation sites.

— What has been done to address the rusty metal sticking up out of the ground at the playground at Cheat Lake Park.

When The Dominion Post visited Cheat Lake Park and reported on the complaints in November, we twice contacted Jody Smet, chief compliance officer and vice president of regulatory affairs for Lake Lynn Generation and Eagle Creek Renewable Energy, with a series of questions about the complaints, its stewardship and its plans to address the concerns. Smet did not respond to either contact.

EMAIL: dbeard @dominionpost.com TWEET @DominionPostWV