PORTLAND, Ore. — The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Portland District, is accepting public comments through Feb. 4, 2026, for the proposed Cascade Renewable Transmission Project.
USACE issued a Notice of Intent on Jan. 5, 2026, to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the project, which requires a Department of the Army permit, Section 408 permission, and real estate out grant(s) to proceed.
“As part of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process, we collect public comments to help shape the EIS,” said Joe Brock, the Portland District project manager. “Public input is crucial to ensure we consider all potential impacts and alternatives. This process helps us better understand community concerns and make informed decisions.”
The project will involve the installation of 78.9 miles of 12-inch high-voltage direct current cable buried in the bed of the Columbia River using hydroplow methods. The cable bundle will be installed 10 to 15 feet below the riverbed. Where the cable crosses the navigation channel below Bonneville Dam, it will be installed to a depth of at least 34 feet below Columbia River Datum.
The transmission line is expected to support regional energy needs and economic activity. It may also have adverse effects on the aquatic ecosystem, fish and wildlife, navigation, recreation, water quality, and safety. The project is likely to adversely affect species listed under the Endangered Species Act, designated critical habitats, and essential fish habitat.
The EIS will assess the potential environmental, ecological, aesthetic, historical, cultural, and social impacts of the project.
The 30-day public comment period, which began on Jan. 5, 2026, provides an opportunity for the public, agencies, organizations, and tribes to submit comments and suggestions on the proposed project.
Virtual Scoping Meetings: USACE will host two virtual scoping meetings. The meetings will include an overview of the NEPA process and the proposed project. USACE will accept oral comments from the public during the meetings. One speaker per participant or phone number will be allowed.
Jan. 28, 2026: 1 – 3:00 p.m.
Join online: Join the meeting now
Join by phone: 601-262-2433; Phone conference ID: 586 938 06#
Jan. 29, 2026: 6 – 8 p.m.
Join online: Join the meeting now
Join by phone: 601-262-2433; Phone conference ID: 128 989 315#
For more information or to submit written comments, please visit the USACE website at https://www.nwp.usace.army.mil/CRT.