Whites Gulch Dam Removal Project
Summary
SCH Number
2008078101
Public Agency
California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Region 1
(CDFW)
Document Title
Whites Gulch Dam Removal Project
Document Type
NOE - Notice of Exemption
Received
Posted
7/7/2008
Document Description
OSHA certified blasters from the California Department of Fish and Game (DFG) will use explosives to demolish a diversion dam (upper dam) on Whites Gulch which will allow fish access to approximately 1.5 miles of stream. The dam is a 2 ft. thick, 41 ft. wide, and 7 ft. tall concrete structure. The site will be dewatered by constructing a coffer dam upstream of the site using native streambed material and Visqueen and routing the water around dam via an existing pipe. DFG biologists will remove fish and amphibians and release them to a safe section of stream. The dam would then be drilled, explosive charges set, blasted, and debris removed from channel. All work will take place using hand labor and small gas, electric, or pneumatic powered hand tools. No heavy equipment will be used. Currently there are two downstream barriers (culvert and diversion dam) which are scheduled to be removed after the upper dam is removed. These structures preclude the possibility that coho salmon may exist in the project area. The project is scheduled to be implemented in August, 2009.
Contact Information
Name
Kevin Gale
Agency Name
California Department of Fish and Game
Contact Types
Lead/Public Agency
Phone
Location
Counties
Siskiyou
Other Location Info
Whites Gulch
Notice of Exemption
Exempt Status
Categorical Exemption
Type, Section or Code
Class33,Sec.15333
Reasons for Exemption
The project will remove a diversion dam which is no longer needed and provide fish passage to approximately 1.5 miles of upstream habitat and two downstream barriers to coho salmon exist which would preclude the possibility of this species at the project area. Aquatic species present at the project site will be removed to a safe location prior to the project being implemented. Potential adverse effects for wildlife would be minor and short term. The project is not within ¼ mile of suitable northern spotted owl habitat. Rare plant surveys were conducted at the project site and no rare or sensitive species were present. Substrate samples were taken above and below the project site and tested for mercury. The results of those samples showed no levels of mercury (or 7 other tested elements) above that of the background samples. A cultural resources investigation was conducted and identified an existing cultural resource (arrastra) located near the project area. Mitigation measures (avoidance) were also identified to avoid impacts to this site and will be adhered to during project implementation. Existing road and trails will be used to access the project site. Existing riparian habitat will not be disturbed. Work will take place using hand labor and small hand tools. Heavy equipment will not be used. There will therefore be no significant adverse impact to endangered, rare or threatened species or their habitat. There are no hazardous materials at or around the project site. The project will not result in cumulatively significant impacts. The Project will have no significant effect on the environment.
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