Site work for a power facility in Durango, Colorado. Working plans call for site work for a power facility.

Notice is hereby given that the Rural Utilities Service (RUS), as required by the National Environmental Policy Act, is issuing an environmental assessment (EA) in connection with possible impacts related to a project proposed by La Plata Electric Association (LPEA). The proposal is for the development of a grid connected solar photovoltaic system and associated Battery Energy Storage System (BESS). LPEA has submitted an application to the RUS for funding of the proposal. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, CONTACT: Russell Japuntich, Environmental Protection Specialist, USDA Rural Development, Rural Utilities Service, 1400 Independence Ave. SW, Washington, DC 20250-1548, email Russell.Japuntich@USDA.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: LPEA proposes to construct a 51-acre grid connected solar voltaic system and BESS in La Plata County, at 299 CR 218, Durango, CO 81303. LPEA has prepared an environmental assessment for RUS that describes the project, assesses the proposed project's environmental impacts, and summarizes as applicable any mitigation measures used to minimize environmental assessment and believes that it accurately assesses the impact of the proposed project. No significant impacts are expected as a result of the construction of the project. Written questions and comments should be emailed to RUS at: RUSPublicComments@usda.gov. RUS will accept questions and comments on the environmental assessment for 14 days from the first date of publication of the notice. Any final action by RUS related to the proposed project will be subject to, and contingent upon, compliance with all relevant Federal environmental laws and regulations and completion of environmental review procedures as prescribed by 7 CFR Part 1970, Environmental Policies and Procedures. The estimated construction time will take 9-12 months to complete.