Yuba River Development Project and the Narrows Hydroelectric Project FERC Relicensings

The Yuba County Water Agency is seeking relicensing from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission for a 50-year term to continue the operation and maintenance of the Yuba River Development Project and the Narrows Hydroelectric Project. Located across Yuba, Sierra, and Nevada Counties, the Yuba River Development Project has an installed capacity of 361.9 megawatts and includes facilities such as the New Bullards Bar Reservoir and the New Colgate Powerhouse. Proposed improvements for this project include the construction of a new Tailwater Depression System, the installation of outlet pipes at the Our House and Log Cabin Diversion Dams, the replacement of a gate at the Lohman Ridge Diversion Tunnel, and the expansion of recreation facilities at New Bullards Bar Reservoir through new campgrounds, a picnic site, and a trail. The Narrows Hydroelectric Project, located near Englebright Dam, requires no new facilities or changes to existing works. The projects are subject to strict environmental compliance under the California Environmental Quality Act and the California Endangered Species Act, as well as the Clean Water Act. A Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program has been established to manage impacts on biological and cultural resources, including specific protocols for human remains, bat exclusion windows, and aquatic habitat protection. Contractors must adhere to CARB truck regulations, utilize renewable diesel, and implement dust control plans per NSAQMD Rule 226. The project has undergone a comprehensive environmental review process, including a Joint Environmental Impact Report and coordination with the State Water Resources Control Board and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, culminating in a Notice of Determination certifying that the projects will be implemented with adopted mitigation measures.