Rapid Ecological Assessment Vaca Falls Hydroelectric Site

Consultants conducted a Rapid Ecological Assessment of the proposed site for the Vaca Falls dam in order to anticipate potential environmental impacts in the pre-development phase.  The team carried out phase I and II habitat surveys of the development site and adjacent areas focusing on ecosystems of the area and keystone faunal species inhabiting the project area.  Maps showing the ecosystems of the project area were produced and the presence and abundance of faunal species were established. The Vaca Falls Hydroelectric facility is one of a number of Run of the River dams in the upper portion of the Macal River.