Choctaw Nation Opposes Hydropower Project to Protect Natural Resources, Sovereignty

The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma (CNO) Tribal Council has approved a measure opposing a hydropower project proposed by the Southeast Oklahoma Power Corp. (SEOPC).

A formal letter about the issue was sent to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) detailing the Tribe’s concerns about potential harm from the project and the importance of Tribal participation in the approval process.

“One of our Tribe’s top priorities is defending our sovereignty, which includes protecting our culture and community. These efforts include being good stewards of our land and natural resources,” CNO Chief Gary Batton said. “Fortunately, FERC has recognized it must not issue preliminary permits for projects on Tribal land if a project is opposed by a Tribe, and we call on the agency to adhere to that policy.”

The proposed project would impact endangered species, including a particular mussel, and numerous historical sites. It also runs counter to the historic Water Settlement Agreement between CNO, other Tribes, Oklahoma City and the state of Oklahoma, which is enforceable as a matter of federal law.

Additionally, the proposed project would trigger numerous regulations and laws, including the Endangered Species Act, the National Historic Preservation Act and others. It also necessitates extensive studies and meetings with multiple state and federal agencies to fully understand the impact of the project.

“Cooperation between sovereign tribal nations and the federal government is critical to protecting the natural resources we all enjoy,” Batton said.