SECOND QUARTER 2007

Began working with the Northern Tier Transmission Group (NTTG), a group of northern tier utilities coordinating transmission needs for the region in an effort to determine MSTI interconnection and other project requirements. The group includes NorthWestern Energy, Idaho Power, PacifiCorp, Deseret Power Electric Cooperative, and Utah Associated Municipal Power Systems. MSTI is one of the NTTG’s Fast Track Projects. These projects are identified where there is a clear near-term need for transmission and account for regional load growth and planned generation projects. Project studies are currently being conducted for the regional path rating process through the Western Electricity Coordinating Council (WECC). Phase 1 studies were completed in 2007 showing significant benefits to the western grid. Go to www.nttg.biz for more information.

THIRD QUARTER 2007

Began field reconnaissance and collection of natural and cultural resource and land use data to support the MFSA and ER. Project information, including alternative route locations, was shared during briefings with the county commissions in 15 Montana and Idaho counties during the second half of 2007, and their issues and concerns for the project were voiced and documented.

THIRD AND FOURTH QUARTER 2007

Filed permit applications for a right of way grant with the Montana State office of Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to cross BLM public lands in Montana and Idaho. Filed for a for a Special Use Permit with the Forest Service to cross National Forest System lands of the Beaverhead-Deer Lodge and Caribou-Targhee National Forests. Cost recovery agreements were completed with these agencies and the DEQ before the end of 2007.

SECOND QUARTER 2007 - SECOND QUARTER 2008

Eleven public meetings were held along the various alternative routes in both Montana and Idaho to receive comments and provide information.