Public Information/Environmental Scoping Meeting

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Xcel Energy Orono HVTL Project Draft Scoping Document PUC Docket No.E002/TL-11-223 Page 4 A copy of the HVTL route permit application, along with other relevant documents, can be reviewed at the Energy Facility Permitting (EFP) web page at: http://energyfacilities.puc.state.mn.us/Docket.html?Id=3 2082 The Department EFP is responsible for evaluating the HVTL route permit application and administering the environmental review process. The Commission is responsible for selecting the transmission lines routes and issuing the HVTL route permit. If issued a route permit by the Commission, the Applicant may exercise the power of eminent domain to acquire the land necessary for the project pursuant to Minnesota Statute 216E.12 and Minnesota Statute 117. ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW Environmental review under the alternative permitting process includes public information/scoping meetings and the preparation of an environmental review document, the Environmental Assessment (EA) (Minn. R. 7850.3700). The environmental assessment is a written document that describes the human and environmental impacts of the transmission line project (and selected alternative routes) and methods to mitigate such impacts. The Deputy Commissioner of the Department's Division of Energy Resources will determine the scope of the EA. The EA will be completed and made available prior to the public hearing. The environmental review document under the HVTL Route Permit procedures (Minnesota Rules, 7850.3700, subpart 4) must include the following: A. A general description of the proposed project; B. A list of any alternative sites or routes that are addressed; C. A discussion of the potential impacts of the proposed project and each alternative site or route on the human and natural environment; D. A discussion of mitigative measures that could reasonably be implemented to eliminate or minimize any adverse impacts identified for the proposed project and each alternative; E. An analysis of the feasibility of each alternative site or route considered; F. A list of permits required for the project; and G. A discussion of other matters identified in the scoping process. SCOPING PROCESS The purpose of the scoping process is to provide the public with an opportunity to participate in the development of the scope of the EA by holding a public meeting and soliciting public comment. This section will contain information on the scoping meeting held Wednesday, August 10, 2011 in Orono, Minnesota.