In April 2004, Puget Sound Energy submitted a License Application for the Baker River Hydroelectric Project using FERC's Alternative Licensing Procedures, a new licensing process with an emphasis on collaboration and the involvement of interested parties from the beginning. During the process, more than 100 representatives of the public, tribal organizations, governmental agencies and special interest groups actively participated.
The Baker relicensing process began in March 2000 with two public meetings, and culminated four years later with filing of the License Application. In order to address all areas of interest, various teams and working groups formed, many of which met monthly through the entire process — and some of which continue their efforts today.