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An Update from Ernie
(by Ernie Deluca, Recreation Enterprise Manager, FPLE Maine)
FPL Energy Maine Hydro LLC has under taken the task of constructing a new access to the Kennebec River at Harris Station. Why, you
might ask? Several factors went into the decision to make this change.
First, and by far the most relevant was the tragic events of September 11th. After that day the Federal Energy Regulation
Commission (FERC) focused their attention on security at all hydro stations and dam facilities across the nation. FPL Energy Maine
Hydro was no exception. Harris Station, which has by far the largest recreational use of any FPLE facility with over 70,000 visitors
annually required special attention.
Secondly, was the lack of staging area in the lower yard where, during peak season, over 1000 users per day including both
commercial and private individuals stage for whitewater adventures on the Kennebec River.
In order to accommodate both of these factors it was suggested that FPL Energy look at alternative access points away from the
powerhouse and dam structures. After looking at these alternatives it was decided that construction of a staircase with a raft slide in the
middle could accomplish all of our objectives. Having obtained the design plans of a similar staircase in the New River Gorge of West
Virginia, an engineering firm was called in to design a concept of a Harris Station staircase.
One additional consideration to this design was the ability for kayakers and canoeists to easily pass by the rafters who are waiting to
launch their watercraft as agreed to in the Indian Pond Settlement Agreement. To accomplish this an additional set of stairs was added
to the outside of the raft slide stairs.
With the completion of this new facility, FPL Energy will have accomplished all of the stated objectives. It is FPL Energy Maine
Hydro's true hope that this new facility will enhance the visiting public's experience while at Harris Station.
Some questions have been posed about the Harris recording on the Flow Phone [1-800-557-FLOW(3569)] . The following
explanation will hopefully clarify: The recording starts with the day of the week and the date. Then it is stated "Harris scheduled start
time is __" this is the time of day that units at Harris will start turning, putting water in the river. Then it states "Harris scheduled stop
time is __", this is the time of day that units will stop running and the river will return to a minimum flow of 140cfs. Then it will state
"The scheduled flow from 10 am to 1 pm is __". The time period of 10 am to 1pm is the time frame, which by agreement with the
whitewater community FPL Energy will not change the flow under normal circumstances. Outside that time frame FPL Energy reserves
the right to fluctuate the level of the flow according to power demand and water availability. Once again I would like to remind everyone
that posted flows are only estimates and are subject to change without notice.
Email nick [at] noumbrella [dot] com with your questions, comments and concerns.
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