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More Dams on the Blasting Block

California seems to be quickly moving to the head of the national dam removal parade. In February, State Senator Byron Scher introduced legislation that would require the State Resources Agency to develop a statewide inventory of dams and water diversions suitable for "decommission, demolition and removal for the purpose of restoring spawning habitat for salmon and steelhead" by January 1, 2001. The bill specifically excludes Central Valley Project and State Water Project facilities, as well as those that "provide essential flood control, water supply or hydroelectric benefits," although it would allow the agency to recommend modifications that would aid salmon and steelhead habitat restoration.

Meanwhile, three dams in the Estuary's watershed moved a few steps closer to removal. Under a tentative agreement between BurRec and the Townsend Flat Ditch Co., a small irrigation company, 93-year old Saeltzer Dam on Clear Creek would be removed, opening 12 miles of spawning habitat. And the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission has announced initial steps toward tearing down two dams on Alameda Creek. The two structures, a 12-foot high dam built in 1901 and a 6-foot high dam built in 1885, are no longer considered necessary, although fish ladders are not being ruled out as an alternative to removal.

Contact: Byron Scher's Office (916)445-6747

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