Environmental Permitting for Operation and Maintenance

The California Department of Water Resources is managing environmental permitting for operation and maintenance activities across several flood control projects in California. A primary focus is the Colusa Bypass Channel Capacity Rehab Project, specifically Minor Alteration No. WA2025039, which authorizes a geotechnical drilling program. This work involves conducting approximately 17 cone penetration tests to a depth of 30 feet and eight borings reaching depths of 30 to 50 feet within the northern bank crest and waterside toe of the Colusa Bypass north levee. Additional related activities include the Colusa Bypass West-Side of Weir Sediment Removal Project, which aims to restore the US Army Corps of Engineers design profile by removing up to 50,000 cubic yards of sediment initially and up to 25,000 cubic yards annually through 2030. Furthermore, the scope encompasses the Cache Creek Settling Basin Training Levee Notching project in Yolo County, involving the removal of two 400-foot levee sections and the grading of access roads and ramps. These projects are governed by the California Code of Regulations and the Public Resources Code, with oversight from the Central Valley Flood Protection Board and the Department of Fish and Wildlife to ensure no significant environmental effects occur.