Stream Gage Installation Project

The Stream Gage Installation Project, managed by the California Department of Water Resources Northern Region Office, involves the installation of four stream gages in Porterville, California. The scope of work includes driving two 2-inch diameter poles into the ground for each gage and hand-excavating a shallow trench, measuring 1.5 feet wide by 3 feet deep, to route sensor lines to the river bottom. All activities must be performed during dry creek conditions to ensure no in-water work occurs within the Tule River. The project is expected to be completed within a one-week timeframe, with required surface restoration following the temporary ground disturbances. The project is identified by solicitation number 2025050153 and was posted on July 31, 2025. It is classified under NAICS code 237990 and is governed by California CEQA categorical exemptions 15303, 15304, and 15306, which confirm the project has minimal environmental impact. Brian Humphrey, a Senior Environmental Scientist with the Department of Water Resources, serves as the primary point of contact. While the Lower Tule River Irrigation District acts as the project sponsor, the government maintains oversight and approval authority for inspection and acceptance at the installation sites near roads 96, 142, and 192.