A nonprofit organization that gives environmentally friendly dam operations its green stamp of approval has recertified Seattle City Light’s Skagit River Hydroelectric Project.
The Low Impact Hydropower Institute of Portland, Maine, said that the Skagit Project met all eight judging criteria, including fish protection, stream flows and water quality.
Seattle City Light goes beyond its dam operations to help salmon and other endangered species. It has a seat on the Skagit Watershed Council, which supports sustainable fisheries.
Earlier this year, the utility contributed to the purchase of old-growth forest and surrounding lands on Boulder Creek to preserve habitat for endangered species.
A representative of the Swinomish tribe, which aggressively protects salmon habitat across the county, said the tribe has a good working relationship with Seattle City Light.
“We very much appreciate their commitment to ensuring healthy salmon runs on the Skagit and mitigating the effects of their operations,” tribal attorney Marty Loesch said.
Seattle City Light spokesman Scott Thomsen said the recognition is a badge of honor and a marketing tool.
“It shows that we’re not just talking a good game. This is independent certification that what we’re doing is making a difference,” Thomsen said.
Because of the Skagit Project’s status with the institute, utilities outside of Washington can purchase power from Seattle City Light in order to meet their states’ quotas for environmentally friendly power, Thomsen said.
The Skagit Project is one of 36 hydroelectric operations in 18 states to receive the institute’s certification. It was also the institute’s first certified project.
