Black Butte Dam and Lake Master Plan Update and Associated Environmental Assessment Public Comment Period

The following is a paid public notice from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) has developed a draft 2026 Environmental Assessment (EA) to finalize the Master Plan Update (MPU) for Black Butte Dam and Lake in Orland, Glenn County, California. The current Master Plan for the Black Butte Dam and Lake project was last approved in 1977 and needs revision to address changes in regional land use, population, outdoor recreation trends, and USACE management policy. Key topics addressed in the Master Plan Update include revised land use classifications, new natural and recreational resource management objectives, recreation facility needs, and special topics such as invasive species management and cultural resources management.

USACE will make the MPU and EA accessible to the public on April 30, 2026, online at https://www.spk.usace.army.mil/Black-Butte-Lake/.  Comments on the documents will be accepted through May 30, 2026. USACE will review all comments received and consider them in finalizing the Master Plan Update and Environmental Assessment.

Project Description: Master Plans are strategic land use management documents that guide the comprehensive management and development of recreational, natural, and cultural resources throughout the life of a water resource project.  A Master Plan does not address the specifics of regional water quality, shoreline management, or water levels. The draft 2025 Master Plan and Environmental Assessment were prepared in compliance with USACE policy for the preparation of Master Plans and the requirements of NEPA.

Comments can be sent to the following email address. Please include “Draft Black Butte EA” in the subject line of your email.

Email:  cespkblackbuttedamandlakemasterplanupdate@usace.army.mil

Comments can also be mailed to the following address.

USACE Sacramento District Operations Division
ATTN: Hilary Wright
Black Butte Dam and Lake Environmental Assessment
1325 J Street
Sacramento, CA 95814