The Nevada Division of Environmental Protection (NDEP) has approved Categorical Exclusions for two Pioche Public Utilities projects. NDEP determined that both efforts fall under the category of minor upgrades to an existing public water system. The agency noted that the work includes replacement of mechanical components and small-scale improvements to existing infrastructure.

With the exclusions granted, both projects are being allowed to move forward without requiring full environmental review. A full review involves a detailed analysis of potential impacts to land, wildlife, water and cultural resources. NDEP has determined that neither Pioche project is likely to create any significant effects to wetlands, floodplains, agricultural lands or sensitive wildlife areas.

The first project involves the replacement and installation of water meters throughout Pioche. The work includes purchasing new meters, updating older equipment and adding meters to currently unmetered connections. The effort is intended to improve accuracy in water-use tracking and strengthen local conservation practices. Pioche Public Utilities is eligible for $182,038.80 in financial assistance through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund.

A second project will bring two new backup generators to Pioche’s water system. The generators are intended to improve system reliability during power outages and increase overall operational resilience. This project qualifies for $154,542 in funding from the same state program.

NDEP shared that both projects will follow best management practices during construction, in accordance with state requirements for cultural resource protection. Full public notices and other resources are available on the NDEP website at https://ndep.nv.gov.

The public may submit comments on either project through Dec. 18. If no significant comments are received by the deadline, the environmental review process will be considered complete.
All comments should be directed to Daniel Morgan, environmental scientist with NDEP’s Office of Financial Assistance. Email communication can be directed to [email protected]. Letters can also be mailed to Daniel Morgan at 901 South Stewart Street, Suite 4001, Carson City, NV 89701-5249.