Cant USACE just go ahead and reduce the flows from Lake Lanier since they are charged with operating the Lake?
The Corps cannot reduce the flows from Lake Lanier at this time. USACE is required to maintain minimum downstream flows for endangered species under the Endangered Species Act. However, USACE is actively engaged in discussions with FWS and conducting a new Biological Assessment aimed at determining whether we can reduce flows 5,000 cfs. Flows lower than 5000 cfs were not part of the action analyzed in the prior biological opinion developed by the FWS as a result of formal consultation between that agency and the Corps pursuant to the Endangered Species Act. We expect to complete this assessment by 1 November and continue to work with FWS on possible flow reductions. Additional consultation under the Endangered Species Act is required to authorize any deviation from this flow. 4.
