MM 6.50 Fiber Optic Erosion Repair (OM-DFD-2026-021)

The California Department of Water Resources is initiating a project under solicitation number OM-DFD-2026-021 to repair erosion and cover an exposed fiber optic cable along the outer slope of the California Aqueduct near Bethany Reservoir at Mile Marker 6.50. The scope of work involves using an excavator to remove loose, eroding soil and utilizing a dump truck for dirt fill, which will be compacted with a backhoe and sheep's foot roller to stabilize the area. A water truck will be employed for dust control and to ensure proper soil compaction, with all staging and operations remaining within the DWR right-of-way. This project is classified as a forecast under NAICS code 238910 and has been granted a Categorical Exemption under Class 1, Section 15301, as it constitutes routine maintenance. The project was formally processed with a Notice of Exemption signed on September 17, 2026. Primary points of contact for the effort include Environmental Scientist Janine Beck and Environmental Program Manager Sara Lowry.