Geotechnical Investigations for the Sunset Weir and Pumps Fish Passage Project

The project involves conducting nine geotechnical explorations along the Feather River in Live Oak, California, to gather subsurface data essential for evaluating riverbank stability in anticipation of water surface elevation changes resulting from the proposed removal of Sunset Weir. These investigations are critical to informing the design of new bank protection measures, a replacement Sunset pump station, and new intake structures. Work will include mud rotary drilling, standard penetration tests, seismic cone penetration tests, and cone penetration tests at both upland and in-river locations, with boreholes extending 40 to 120 feet deep. All sites will be fully restored upon completion, with boreholes backfilled using cement-bentonite grout and no hazardous discharges permitted. Activities are limited to a maximum of 30 days and strictly confined to designated areas with minimal vegetation disturbance. Environmental protections are central to the project’s execution, with mandatory compliance with California Environmental Quality Act Class 6 categorical exemption requirements and adherence to best management practices developed by the California Department of Water Resources. Qualified biologists and archaeologists must be present during all ground-disturbing activities to monitor for protected species—including valley elderberry longhorn beetle, northwestern pond turtle, and salmon—and cultural resources. In-water work is restricted to July 15 through September 30 to avoid critical spawning periods, and all operations require immediate cessation upon discovery of such resources. Tribal consultation is required, and tribal representatives may participate in field monitoring. Strict protocols govern equipment cleanliness, wildlife protection, waste removal, and hazardous material handling, with vehicle speeds capped at 5 mph in sensitive zones and nightly equipment inspections mandated. There is no formal contract value, pricing structure, delivery schedule, or federal acquisition regulation clause structure provided, indicating the document serves as an environmental notice and forecast rather than a binding procurement instrument. Primary point of contact is Rachel Ballanti, Program Manager II at the Department of Water Resources, with no designated contracting officer or contract administration representative identified.