TVA Land Disposals

We assessed TVA's compliance with applicable policies, procedures, and laws/regulations when conducting land disposal transactions. TVA's land disposal actions include easements, sales, abandonments, deed modifications, transfers, and leases. The TVA Act grants TVA authority to transfer land to government agencies, corporations, partnerships, or individuals. TVA's overall policy on the use, acquisition, and disposal of land is contained in TVA Code V, which was last updated in 1982. With regard to reservoir property:TVA maintains 293,000 acres of reservoir property. River Systems Operations and Environment (RSO&E) manages reservoir property and maintains Board-approved Land Management Plans for the major reservoir properties. In summary, we determined:TVA's policy on land disposals does not clearly articulate (1) criteria for considering which property is subject to disposal, (2) criteria for accepting or rejecting proposals, and (3) provisions for land swaps. RSO&E generally complied with their land disposal processes including (1) obtaining appropriate reviews and approvals, (2) ensuring independent appraisals of land value, and (3) receipt of payment for appraised values. However, we found documentation could be improved related to the non-requirement of public notice. Documentation is not required or being maintained for withdrawn or rejected Land Use Applications. RSO&E has scheduled reassessment of TVA's Land Management Plans beyond their planned ten-year horizon. No non-compliance with applicable laws and regulations. TVA management generally agreed with our findings and recommendations and has taken or plans to take corrective action.