Elkhart Truth photo / Rasmus S. Jorgensen
Understanding the Licensing Process for the Johnson Street Dam
The Elkhart County Gives A Dam campaign is committed to keeping the community informed about the licensing process for the Johnson Street Dam and what it means for the future of the St. Joseph River. Below is an outline of the current process as we understand it based on communications from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and American Electric Power (AEP)/Indiana Michigan Power (I&M).
* This information is based on our understanding of the licensing process as outlined by FERC. We are committed to providing accurate updates and will revise this section as new information becomes available and details evolve.
* This information is based on our understanding of the licensing process as outlined by FERC. We are committed to providing accurate updates and will revise this section as new information becomes available and details evolve.
Current Status
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- Notice of Intent (NOI) & Pre-Application Document (PAD) (June–December 2025)
- AEP/I&M must notify FERC whether they intend to seek a new license for the Johnson Street Dam.
- Simultaneously, they must file a Pre-Application Document (PAD) that includes:
✅ A project overview, including location, facilities, and operations
✅ An environmental impact summary and list of necessary studies
✅ A consultation plan with tribes, agencies, and the public
✅ A process plan and schedule outlining next steps
- Licensing Process & Public Involvement
- Once the PAD is filed, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) will establish deadlines and outline opportunities for public comment.
- AEP will then decide between the Traditional Licensing Process (TLP) or the Integrated Licensing Process (ILP), which will influence how the project proceeds.
- Next Steps
- We are closely monitoring AEP’s decisions regarding the dam and will continue to provide updates as the process moves forward.
- Community members can sign up for updates to stay informed about key milestones and opportunities to engage.
- For more information, you can reference FERC’s Hydropower Compliance Handbook and Hydropower Licensing Guide for the Public.
This process will take time, but community involvement will be essential once key decisions are made. Stay informed and be ready to make your voice heard when the time comes!
