MARYSVILLE, Calif. (Mar. 27, 2026) – Yuba Water Agency will begin removing sediment on the riverbank below New Colgate Powerhouse as part of ongoing response following the Feb. 13 penstock pipe rupture. The work is expected to begin Friday, March 27 and last several weeks, with completion targeted for June 1.
Crews will remove an estimated 60,000 cubic yards of sediment that entered the river when water from the ruptured penstock carried soil, rock and debris down the hillside, creating two large sediment fans on either side of the powerhouse. Crews will also work to locate and safely remove any man-made debris that may be buried within the sediment.
Ongoing soil sampling results have not shown concerning levels of contaminants. All sediment and debris management activities will be completed consistent with relevant permit requirements.
Some temporary increases in turbidity downstream are expected during removal, including at Englebright Lake.
“Unfortunately, the river and Englebright Lake may look murkier over the next few weeks, while we work through this process,” said Yuba Water General Manager Willie Whittlesey. “But, by removing this sediment right now, in a controlled way, we can continue to support recovery at the site and reduce the chance of further environmental impacts during high-flow events in the future. This work is about taking action now to reduce future risks.”
The work will be performed by Nordic Industries, which is already supporting sediment removal at New Colgate Powerhouse and rebuilding Lake Francis Road.
Yuba Water will continue to provide updates as work progresses. Visit engage.yubawater.org for the latest updates and information.