News Release Archive

Reclamation Starts Savage Rapids Dam Removal

Media Contact: John Redding, (208) 378-5212, jredding@pn.usbr.gov
Robert Hamilton, rhamilton@pn.usbr.gov

For Release: April 24, 2009

The Bureau of Reclamation announced today that the two primary coffer dams essential to removal of Savage Rapids Dam on the Rogue River in Oregon will be completed by April 27.

The coffer dams will allow the contractor, Slayden Construction Group, to slowly close the radial gates and raise the water surface behind Savage Rapids Dam starting on April 27 to restore fish passage through the dam's south fish ladder. Downstream flows will be somewhat reduced while water is stored behind the dam.

A dry working environment within the coffer dams will allow crews to begin demolishing the right side of Savage Rapids Dam.

The new Savage Rapids Pumping Plant is ready to begin operations at the start of the Grants Pass Irrigation District's 2009 irrigation season. Congress authorized Reclamation to construct the Savage Rapids Pumping Plant to supply water to the district.

Motorists are advised to be aware of heavy equipment entering and exiting Foothill Boulevard in the area adjacent to the construction site and to be cautious of congestion and pedestrian traffic on Highway 99 near the dam.

Plans call for removing the coffer dams and diverting the river through the breached section of the dam by October. Removal of two additional bays and other remaining construction should be completed by mid December 2009.

The total estimated project cost is $39.3 million, with $3 million for dam removal provided by the Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board.

The Grants Pass Irrigation District constructed Savage Rapids Dam in 1921, to divert water for irrigation. An amended 2001 Federal Court Consent Decree required the District to cease using the dam for water diversions by the end of the 2008 irrigation season. Congress subsequently authorized Reclamation to construct the Savage Rapids Pumping Plant to supply water to the district.

Additional information on project construction can be found by selecting the Savage Rapids Dam Removal update link in the center of the web page at: www.usbr.gov/pn.

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The Bureau of Reclamation is a federal agency under the U.S. Department of the Interior and is the nation's largest wholesale water supplier and second largest producer of hydroelectric power. Our facilities also provide substantial flood control, recreation opportunities, and environmental benefits. Visit our website at https://www.usbr.gov and follow us on Twitter @USBR; Facebook @bureau.of.reclamation; LinkedIn @Bureau of Reclamation; Instagram @bureau_of_reclamation; and YouTube @reclamation.

Relevant Link:

http://www.usbr.gov/pn