TURNERS FALLS — The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) will hold a public information and input session regarding FirstLight Hydro Generating Co.’s application for a water quality certification from MassDEP.

The certification is required as part of FirstLight’s relicensing process through the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for its Connecticut River hydroelectric facilities. FirstLight has operated the Turners Falls dams and Northfield hydro-pump facility under a temporary license since 2018 and is seeking a 50-year license renewal through FERC.

The hearing will be held in person and virtually on Thursday, Oct. 10, at 6 p.m. at the Shea Theater Arts Center, located at 71 Avenue A.

During the public information and input session, representatives from MassDEP, the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (MassWildlife), and the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) will present information on the state’s water quality certification process, share what has been learned from public comments to date and answer questions.

The Oct. 10 information session is the second of three opportunities for public participation regarding FirstLight’s water quality certification application, according to MassDEP. A draft decision will be issued by late 2024 or early 2025, with another public hearing and public comment period to take place at that time.

Documents related to the water quality certification application are available at tinyurl.com/yc3y4tvw. To register to participate online or in person, visit tinyurl.com/2u35v7av. Online registration is required for those wishing to attend virtually and encouraged for in-person attendees.

Individuals who require language interpretive assistance or other assistance should, by Oct. 3, email Nishaila Porter (nishaila.porter@mass.gov), call Melixza Esenyie at the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at 617-626-1282, or TTY# MassRelay Service 1-800-439-2370.