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.
- Yreka Library Offers Variety of Community Events in JunePost Views: 30 The Yreka Library is welcoming community members of all ages to participate in a variety of educational, recreational, and cultural events throughout June. The library’s Summer Reading Program will kick off on Friday, June 12, with a special presentation by John Jackson of Bugs R Us. The event will feature live reptiles
- Obituary: Judith Ann ReddPost Views: 36 Judith Ann Redd (Pass) 86, of Mount Shasta, California, passed away suddenly on May 27, 2026. GMA “J” (as she was endearingly known as), was born on November 20, 1939 in Columbus, Ohio. Judy graduated from Columbus School for Girls, a private college-preparatory school. She went on to graduate from University of
- OBITUARY: HELEN ELIZABETH MCKENZIEPost Views: 27 Helen Elizabeth McKenzie of Mount Shasta peacefully transitioned from this life on May 15, 2026, at the age of 86. Though she is no longer with us, her joyful spirit, infectious laugh, and unwavering love for her family will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. Helen
- OBITUARY: DEBBIE SUE TURNHAMPost Views: 26 Debbie Sue Turnham, a devoted wife, loving mother, cherished grandmother, and treasured friend, passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of her family. Born on January 27, 1953, in Mount Shasta, California, Debbie was the beloved daughter of Boomer and Lucille Tonkin. From the beginning, she was adored by her older sisters,
- CA Senate Democrats back early parole for serial child rapists – David Allen Funston, Gregory Lee Vogelsang, and other predatory violent criminalsPost Views: 37 Reckless parole board members appointed by Newsom get confirmed on party-line vote, transcript rejected from being read SACRAMENTO, Calif. – In the Senate Chamber today, Senate Democrats voted to approve the reappointment of five presiding commissioners on the state’s board of parole hearings. This demonstrates yet again the utter disregard the governor and legislative
