On January 23rd, 2024, a significant milestone was achieved in the removal of the Copco 1 dam on the Klamath River. A 12 ft. diameter tunnel was successfully blasted at the base of the dam, marking the start of the reservoir drawdown process. This action led to the release of an estimated 4000 cubic feet per second of water and sediment.
During the previous summer, a significant effort was made to prepare for the dam removal. Crews blasted a 90 ft. adit tunnel at the base of the dam and inserted pipe, which was further reinforced with boulders and 1000 yards of concrete.
To fully set the river free, 800 lbs. of dynamite was deployed to blast the remaining concrete plug. As a result, a surge of water traveled several miles beyond the former Copco 2 dam and the renowned Wards Canyon, which had largely been devoid of water for a century. The unleashed flow eventually found its way into newly formed river channels within the former Iron Gate Reservoir.
This exciting development paves the way for the complete removal of the Copco 1 dam by the end of 2024.
Side Note:
“I can not describe the sorrow and sadness this brings to my soul” Jay A. Martin
My wife’s grandfather helped build the original COPCO powerhouse, and Oroville powerhouse. Her father also was involved in the power transmission lines across the PNW.
“Despite repeated requests, [the Renewal Corporation] have NOT included local news.”
While the dam removal aims to benefit the environment, it requires difficult tradeoffs. There are calls for project leaders to engage impacted residents more actively, provide requested information, and include local voices. Achieving balance between restoration goals and community needs remains an ongoing challenge. Open dialogue and mutual understanding may help find a way forward.
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- Klamath River Project Adult Fish Counting Facility Update – October 11, 2024The California Department of Fish and Wildlife has released its latest in-season update for the Klamath River Project Adult Fish Counting Facility. This update provides preliminary 2024 returns of Fall-run Chinook Salmon and Coho Salmon to each counting facility. Operational Status and Counts Shasta River Bogus Creek Scott River Jenny Creek Shovel Creek Station Locations… Read more: Klamath River Project Adult Fish Counting Facility Update – October 11, 2024
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