Seminoe Pumped Storage Project – Water Quality Modeling Review

Follum Hydrologic Solutions (FHS), on behalf of Trout Unlimited, conducted an independent technical review of the water quality modeling performed for the proposed Seminoe Pumped Storage Project at Seminoe and Kortes Reservoirs. The review evaluated a CE-QUAL-W2 hydrodynamic and water quality model developed to assess potential impacts of pumped storage operations on reservoir conditions and downstream water quality, with particular attention to the North Platte River’s Miracle Mile reach below Kortes Dam. FHS examined model inputs, assumptions, calibration approach, and operational scenarios to assess whether the modeling adequately characterized temperature, dissolved oxygen, and other key water quality parameters under both planned and maximum project operations.

The review identified water temperature as the primary potential risk to downstream aquatic resources, particularly during periods of low reservoir elevation at Seminoe Reservoir. To strengthen the robustness and defensibility of the analysis, FHS recommended targeted enhancements to the modeling framework. These recommendations were intended to support adaptive management, reduce uncertainty, and ensure that potential water quality risks are fully understood prior to project implementation.