California 2024 Recreational Releases
Annually, American Whitewater starts the paddling year by confirming recreational release dates negotiated with hydropower projects across California like those operated by Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) and Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD). Here is...
Great Falls of the Catawba Good and Getting Better! (SC)
By: Kevin Colburn We are happy to share a few updates on the Great Falls of the Catawba that we think you’ll enjoy as we reflect on the river’s first year of restored flows. First and foremost the first season was very successful with lots of happy visitors,...
Utility Releases Fast-Track Plans for Removing Dams on California’s Eel River
The removal of two dams blocking Northern California’s Eel River is one step closer to happening. On November 17, Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E), the owner of the dams, released its initial draft plan for dismantling the Scott and Cape Horn dams and relinquishing its license for the 113-year-old Potter Valley Hydroelectric Project.
An Important Milestone on the Klamath – Removal of the Copco 2 Dam Complete!
Crews spent October putting the final touches on the removal of the Copco No. 2 Dam on California’s Klamath River, removing the remaining diversion infrastructure, grading the river channel, and performing erosion control. Deconstruction of the dam structure was completed in September. This work prepares the river canyon for consistent river flows, something which the river canyon below the dam hasn’t seen in 98 years. Restored flows in this reach will provide new whitewater boating opportunities on a section of river that has been dewatered and inaccessible to the public. Only a handful of boaters have ever been able to experience this run.