The Gifford Pinchot National Forest is seeking public comments on a draft environmental impact statement that includes amendments to the Gifford Pinchot National Forest Land and Resource Management Plan and Northwest Forest Plan for the Spirit Lake Outflow Safety Improvement Project, a news release from the U.S. Forest Service stated.
The project is part of a long-term effort to responsibly manage the water levels of Spirit Lake to keep surrounding communities safe. The tunnel is located within the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument in Washington state.
Following the 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens, a natural debris blockage formed across Spirit Lake’s outlet. In 1985, an emergency tunnel was constructed to safely manage lake levels. Today, that tunnel — while still functional — requires rehabilitation to continue serving its role effectively into the future, according to the release.
“Spirit Lake is a unique natural system with a deep scientific and cultural legacy,” said Ryan Cole, Spirit Lake project manager. “This project reflects our commitment to thoughtful stewardship that protects public safety, the surrounding environment, and the values that make the monument a special place.”
The Forest Service has identified two preferred alternatives: a full repair and rehabilitation of the existing tunnel or a new pressure tunnel. The draft includes seven other alternatives for public review and comment. There is no immediate threat; the project is part of a deliberate effort to ensure the lake’s outflow infrastructure remains reliable for generations to come.
The analysis within the Spirit Lake draft environmental impact statement and the associated programmatic plan amendment will result in two separate decisions, which consequently requires two separate but concurrent public comment periods.
Both comment periods are 90 days and will close on Oct. 30. The public is invited to review the draft and amendments and submit comments within this period. The draft environmental impact statement with plan amendments and information about how to submit comments can be found on the Spirit Lake project page at shorturl.at/uBBei.
