After so much time, we now have movement on possible dam removals that have been around for a very long time.
In a groundbreaking move, Pacific Gas and Electric Co. (PG&E) has formalized plans to dismantle two more-than-century-old dams on the Eel River, marking a significant step towards restoring the natural flow of the river and reviving its ecosystem. This move is part of a comprehensive 94-page draft abandonment application submitted to federal regulators, signaling PG&E’s commitment to decommission the Potter Valley powerhouse and associated infrastructure, including the Scott and Cape Horn dams.
PG&E anticipates that the demolition of the dams could commence as early as mid-2028, pending regulatory approval and an environmental review of the plan. Scott Dam, dating back to 1921, is expected to be the first to undergo removal, either in stages or all at once.
This initiative aligns with the longstanding aspirations of environmentalists and fishery groups to restore the Eel River’s pristine headwaters, nestled within the Mendocino National Forest. The aim is to facilitate the migration of fish and rejuvenate natural stream flows, ultimately reversing the decline in native fish populations.
Brian J. Johnson, California Director for Trout Unlimited, emphasized the significance of dam removal, stating, “Dam removal will make the Eel the longest free-flowing river in California and will open up many stream miles of prime habitat inaccessible to native salmon and steelhead for north of 100 years. This is extremely significant for salmon and steelhead on the Eel River, and these fisheries can’t afford to wait.”
PG&E faces the critical decision of choosing between two approaches for removing Scott Dam, primarily centered on managing sediment accumulated behind the dam and releasing stored water in a controlled manner to minimize environmental impact.
In a positive development for Sonoma Water and Russian River water users in Sonoma and Mendocino counties, PG&E has agreed to evaluate a regional proposal to retain a portion of the smaller Cape Horn Dam, built in 1907. This proposal also includes a mile-long diversion tunnel to facilitate winter diversions from the Eel to the East Fork Russian River. The intention is to utilize excess water during periods of high Eel River flows to replenish Lake Mendocino and prevent the Russian River from drying up in the summer while still enabling salmon and steelhead trout migration upstream in the Eel River.
Local officials expressed enthusiasm for the inclusion of this proposal in PG&E’s draft, acknowledging the complexity of the plan. Two different approaches, a roughened channel and a pumpback system with embedded pumps, are being considered for diversions, each with varying levels of infrastructure in the water.
Sonoma County Supervisor James Gore emphasized the significance of the decision, stating, “PG&E might have taken the path of least resistance… and pushed forward with a less intricate plan — one that doesn’t deal with different jurisdictions, partners, opinions, ultimate goals.”
Members of the regional coalition, including the Round Valley Indian Tribes, are collaboratively establishing a power position to outline the governance and funding structure for the proposed diversion system, known as the new Eel-Russian Office.
While there is still substantial work ahead in terms of design, engineering, funding, and coordinating water rights, the commitment to proceed with dam removal and advance fishery restoration is evident in the regional proposal. Supporters of the proposal include the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Humboldt County, Trout Unlimited, and California Trout, all striving for enhanced conditions in the Eel River.
The imminent loss of Lake Pillsbury, a beloved 3 ½-square-mile reservoir, is undoubtedly a significant blow for local residents and recreation enthusiasts. However, the overall vision of restoring the natural balance of the Eel River ecosystem and facilitating the return of thriving fish populations signals a positive and environmentally responsible step forward.
North Coast Senator Jared Huffman, a longtime advocate for dam removal, sees this as a crucial milestone in realizing a collaborative and mutually beneficial solution. “This is a major step in the right direction to achieving the Two-Basin Solution I’ve pushed for years,” he stated.
As the public review process unfolds over the next few months, the community will have the opportunity to voice opinions and contribute to the shaping of the final abandonment application, which is expected to be filed in January 2025. The decision to embrace a holistic approach, considering ecological and regional needs, reflects a commitment to responsible environmental stewardship and marks a significant chapter in the ongoing efforts to preserve and restore California’s natural waterways.
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