12/15/08 Endangered species; power savings

The departments of the Interior and Commerce have published joint final regulations to clarify the consultation process under the Endangered Species Act. Secretary of the Interior Dirk Kempthorne says the final regulations, which take effect 30 days after publication in the Federal Register, represent a narrow update of existing regulations. The former Idaho governor contends that the rule strengthens the regulations so the government can focus on protecting endangered species as it strives to rebuild the American economy. Environmentalists say the move destroys any checks and balances under the 1973 Endangered Species Act and could allow projects like power plants to go forward without independent review on species impact. State regulators are being asked to approve an expanded program for irrigators that allows them to get credits when they agree to turn off their pumps during hot summer days when electrical demand is highest and most expensive. Idaho Power, the Idaho Irrigation Pumpers Association and staff from the Idaho Public Utilities Commission are asking the commission to approve a settlement that expands Idaho Power's already existing Irrigation Peak Rewards Program. The commission is taking comments on the proposed expanded program through Wednesday. Voice of Idaho Agriculture Bill Scott