Saulpaw Mill Dam Removal Environmental Assessment

McMinn County, Tennessee

Updated March 19, 2024

The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) is preparing an environmental assessment (EA) for the Saulpaw Mill Dam (Saulpaw Dam) Removal project in McMinn County, Tennessee.

TVA is evaluating two alternatives for the future disposition of the Saulpaw Dam, including taking no action and removing the dam. The project area for the proposed action covers approximately 0.7 acres and would be accessed from Hiwassee Road. The proposed action would consist of the following components: site preparation and vegetation clearing, deployment of oil booms to restrict recreational boat access, installation of sediment and erosion control measures, stabilization of the streambanks and railroad abutment, and removal of the dam liftgate, pier, and main dam blocks to streambed level. Pier and dam blocks extending below the creek bed would be left in place.

TVA has consulted with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Tennessee Historic Commission, and federally recognized tribes about the proposal. Because the Saulpaw Dam is eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places, TVA is consulting with Tennessee Historical Commission State Historic Preservation Officer to explore mitigation alternatives for the proposed action.

Public Involvement

TVA requested public comments on the draft EA from November 15 to December 18, 2023. Because of interest in the project, TVA made the Draft EA available for an additional public review and comment period from February 20 to March 18, 2024. Additionally, TVA hosted an in-person open house from 5-7 PM on March 7, 2024, at the Calhoun Elementary School. Comments received during the 2023 and 2024 comment period will be considered and TVA anticipates publishing the Final EA in Winter of 2024.