The Tennessee Valley Authority will conduct a public meeting from 5:30-8:30 p.m. Thursday, April 18, at the Swain County Center for the Arts located at Swain County High Schooll to gather public input regarding the operations of its reservoir systems.

TVA’s citizen advisory group, the Regional Resources Stewardship Council, recommended the agency study its policies for operating the reservoir system, including an analysis of costs and benefits regarding any potential changes.

The purpose of the study is to determine if changes in operating procedures could produce greater overall public value. Citizens, technical consultants and representatives from federal and state agencies will assist in the study. Technical analyses, including assessments of natural resources, flood risks, water quality, and economic impacts, will be studied along with public input gathered at public meetings across the region.

The two-year study is expected to be completed by October 2003. TVA will conduct the study in accordance with the requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act and produce an Environmental Impact Statement.

Additional meetings and comment periods will be held later in the process to gather public comment on the EIS.

For more information visit TVA’s website at www.tva.com or call toll free 888.882.7675.