Beckley, Bob . 2012. Sustainability Solutions No. 13: Microhydropower at the Spotted Bear Ranger Station. 1273 2T01. Missoula, MT: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, National Technology and Development Program.
The Spotted Bear Ranger Station at the Flathead National Forest receives all its electricity from a microhydropower system when creek flow is adequate. When creek flow is inadequate, a propane generator supplies electricity to the station. Creek flow at the station almost always is sufficient to produce 25 kW of power.
The Forest Service has many potential uses for a microhydropower system. Microhydropower can supply electricity to remote cabins, workstations, and campgrounds. It also can be used to supplement existing solar power systems during winter months. If water levels remain consistent, microhydropower is the only renewable energy source that constantly generates electricity.
Keywords: alternative energy, electricity, energy conservation, generator, microhydropower, NEPA, remote workstation, turbine, waterway
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