HomeMy WebLinkAbout08.12.21 Board Correspondence - FERC
From:Paulsen, Shaina
To:Alpert, Bruce;Bennett, Robin;Clerk of the Board;Connelly, Bill;Cook, Holly;Cook, Robin;Hironimus, Patrizia;
Kimmelshue, Tod;Lucero, Debra;Paulsen, Shaina;Pickett, Andy;Reaster, Kayla;Ring, Brian;Ritter, Tami;
Sweeney, Kathleen;Teeter, Doug
Subject:Board Correspondence - FERC
Date:Thursday, August 12, 2021 9:53:29 AM
Attachments:FERC Emails 08.02.21 - 08.12.21.pdf
Please see attached Board Correspondence from FERC. These emails were received between
08.02.21 – 08.12.21
Thank you
Shaina Paulsen
Administrative Assistant, Senior
Butte County Administration
25 County Center Drive, Suite 200
Oroville, CA 95965
T: 530.552.3304 | F: 530.538.7120
From:"FERC eSubscription"
Subject:Compliance Directives issued in FERC P-619-000
Date:Wednesday, August 11, 2021 1:36:44 PM
.ATTENTION: This message originated from outside Butte County. Please exercise judgment before opening attachments,
clicking on links, or replying..
On 8/11/2021, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), Washington D.C., issued this document:
Docket(s): P-619-000
Lead Applicant: Pacific Gas and Electric Company
Filing Type: Compliance Directives
General Correspondence
Description: Letter to Pacific Gas and Electric Company providing comments on the responses to FERC's comments on the
proposed Phase 2 investigation plan for Grizzly Forebay Dam, part of the Bucks Creek Hydroelectric Project under P-619.
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FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION
Office of Energy Projects
Division of Dam Safety and Inspections San Francisco Regional Office
100 First Street, Suite 2300
San Francisco, CA 94105-3084
(415) 369-3300 Office (415) 369-3322 Facsimile
August 11, 2021
In reply refer to:
Project No. 619-CA
Mr. Jan Nimick, Vice President
Pacific Gas and Electric Company
Mail Code N11E
P.O. Box 770000
San Francisco, CA 94177-0001
Re: Grizzly Forebay Dam - Phase 2 Investigation Plan
Dear Mr. Nimick:
This is in response to a letter dated June 21, 2021 from Ms. Teri Smyly that
submitted responses to address our comments regarding the proposed Phase 2
investigation plan for Grizzly Forebay Dam, which is part of the Bucks Creek
Hydroelctric Project, FERC No. 619. We have reviewed the responses and we have the
following comment:
Your response to our comment no. 2 stated the work plan has been updated to
indicate that the reservoir will be maintained at elevation 4614 ft, however the
work plan is showing an elevation of 4316 ft to 4314 ft. This is inconsistent with
your response. Update the work plan to show that the reservoir will be maintained
at 4614 ft.
Within 10 days from the date of this letter, please provide a response to our
comment. Failure to adequately address our comment within 10 days will require a
suspension of all work until the comment is addressed. For all Dam Safety and Public
Safety Documents, select Hydro: Regional Office and San Francisco Regional Office
from the eFiling menu. The cover page of the filing must indicate that the material was
eFiled. For assistance with eFiling, contact FERC Online Support at
FERCOnlineSupport@ferc.gov, (866) 208-3676 (toll free), or (202) 502-8659 (TTY).
2
We appreciate your continued efforts dam
safety program. If you have any questions, please contact Mr. Edgar Salire at
(415) 369-3369.
Sincerely,
Frank L. Blackett, P.E.
Regional Engineer
cc:
Ms. Sharon Tapia, Chief
Division of Safety of Dams
California Department of Water Resources
P.O. Box 942836
Sacramento, CA 94236-0001
From:"FERC eSubscription"
Subject:Compliance Directives issued in FERC P-619-000
Date:Wednesday, August 11, 2021 5:35:04 AM
.ATTENTION: This message originated from outside Butte County. Please exercise judgment before opening attachments, clicking on links, or replying..
On 8/10/2021, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), Washington D.C., issued this document:
Docket(s): P-619-000
Lead Applicant: Pacific Gas and Electric Company
Filing Type: Compliance Directives
General Correspondence
Description: Letter to Pacific Gas and Electric Company providing comments on the response to FERC's comments on the access improvement authorization request for
Grizzly Forebay Dam, part of the Bucks Creek Project under P-619
To view the document for this Issuance, click here
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From:"FERC eSubscription"
Subject:Compliance Directives issued in FERC P-803-000
Date:Tuesday, August 10, 2021 10:35:05 AM
.ATTENTION: This message originated from outside Butte County. Please exercise judgment before opening attachments, clicking on
links, or replying..
On 8/10/2021, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), Washington D.C., issued this document:
Docket(s): P-803-000
Lead Applicant: Pacific Gas and Electric Company
Filing Type: Compliance Directives
General Correspondence
Description: Letter to Pacific Gas and Electric Company providing comments on the Probable Maximum Flood Study and Spillway
Rating Curve Analysis for Round Valley Dam, part of the De Sabla-Centerville Project under P-803.
To view the document for this Issuance, click here
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FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION
Office of Energy Projects
Division of Dam Safety and Inspections San Francisco Regional Office
100 First Street, Suite 2300
San Francisco, CA 94105-3084
(415) 369-3300 Office (415) 369-3322 Facsimile
August 10, 2021
In reply refer to:
Project No. 803-CA
Jan Nimick, Vice President
Pacific Gas and Electric Company
Mail Code: N11E
P.O. Box 770000
San Francisco, CA 94177-0001
Re: Round Valley Dam Probable Maximum Flood Study and Spillway Rating Curve
Analysis
Dear Mr. Nimick:
This is in response to a letter dated August 15, 2018 from Mr. David Ritzman that
submitted the Probable Maximum Flood Study (PMF) and Spillway Rating Curve
Analysis for Round Valley Dam, which is part of the De Sabla-Centerville Project, FERC
No. 803. We have reviewed the submittal, and we have the following general comments
and more technical comments listed in the Enclosure.
1. Round Valley Dam is predicted to overtop for both local and general storm
flows calculated from the revised PMF study (either by the PMF still water
reservoir level and increased by added wind-generated setup and wave runup).
However, your submittal does not discuss any potential dam safety
implications that would result from the overtopping of this dam nor any
proposed actions to address this issue. Evaluate the potential impacts that
overtopping would have on this dam and provide a plan and schedule to
mitigate against any adverse effects that the overtopping could have on the
safety of the dam. PG&E must develop a long-term plan and schedule for
performing the appropriate analyses, evaluating remedial options, and enacting
final remedial measures.
2
2. Since the submittal indicates the potential of flows overtopping your dam
during the local and general PMF events, your plan and schedule requested
above must include an evaluation of the necessity of implementing interim risk
reduction measures (IRRMs). Any IRRMs deemed necessary should be in
effect until such time the overtopping concern is resolved.
https://www.ferc.gov/ferc-online/overview. For all Dam Safety and Public Safety
Documents, select Hydro: Regional Office and San Francisco Regional Office from the
eFiling menu. The cover page of the filing must indicate that the material was eFiled.
For assistance with eFiling, contact FERC Online Support at
FERCOnlineSupport@ferc.gov, (866) 208-3676 (toll free), or (202) 502-8659 (TTY).
Within 45 days of the date of this letter, please provide a response to our
comments or a plan and schedule to address the above comments and the comments in
the Enclosure
dam safety program. If you have questions, please contact Mr. Michael Vail at
(415) 369-3346.
Sincerely,
Frank L. Blackett, P.E.
Regional Engineer
Enclosure
cc:
Ms. Sharon Tapia, Chief
Division of Safety of Dams
California Department of Water Resources
P.O. Box 942836
Sacramento, CA 94236-0001
Comments to the Spillway Rating Curve Enclosure
And Probable Maximum Flood Report
Round Valley Dam
Spillway Rating Curve
1. Submit the HEC-RAS model files used to develop the spillway rating curve
analysis.
2. Please update Drawings 34313 (Discharge Rating Curve Round Valley
Reservoir) and 440225-2 (Exhibit Drawing L-1), and any other applicable
drawings related to the spillway rating curve and elevation information from
the LiDAR survey. Relevant drawings should be updated or included in the
next update of the dam STID.
3. As stated in the report Summary and Discussion, the rating curves should be
reviewed if observational flow/stage information become available to allow
verification of the model results and updated (if necessary) with observed data.
Probable Maximum Flood Study
4. Section 2.0 references that the spillway can discharge up to 1,800 cfs at zero
freeboard. This is incorrect based on the Spillway Rating Curve analysis
(stated as 1,365 cfs) submitted along with the PMF report. Clarify this
apparent discrepancy.
5. The Round Valley Dam PMF report utilizes watershed information and
analyses from the Probable Maximum Flood Estimate Revisions for Selected
Dams in the Feather River Watershed (FRW) report, developed by HDR in
2015 but never submitted for our review. However, the 2015 PMF study for
the FRW was revised by a 2017 PMF study and accepted by the FERC in
February 2021. Please evaluate if the Round Valley Dam PMF should be
revised based on the most recent PMF revision for the FWR and update the
references using the accepted PMF study. Please also resubmit the revised
modeling files (e.g. HEC-1) and update the Round Valley Dam PMF estimates,
as necessary.
6. As noted in Chapter 8 of the FERC Engineering Guidelines, the ratio R/ (TC +
R) tends to be approximately constant for hydrologically similar drainage
basins in a region. According to Table 4-1 of the PMF report, which shows the
calibrated unit hydrograph parameters used for your regression analysis to
estimate TC and R for the Round Valley watershed, the above ratios that are
computed using the calibrated parameters vary significantly from 0.42 to 0.97.
Rather than using all the calibrated USGS gages to perform your regression
analysis, consider using only the gages that represent watersheds with similar
Page 1 of 3
Comments to the Spillway Rating Curve Enclosure
And Probable Maximum Flood Report
Round Valley Dam
basin shape factors (i.e.,
addition, note that the R coefficient could also be back-calculated using an
average R/ (TC + R) ratio for the calibrated gages with similar shape factors
and the TC for the Round Valley watershed that is determined from the TC vs.
account for other hydrologic parameters that R is dependent on (e.g.,
Please revise your procedure for estimating TC and R or further justify your
selected approach.
7. We understand that an update to the GIS dataset (e.g. terrain, grid size) for
-137, 1061, 2130-CA) had an impact on
hydrologic parameters, such as the longest flowpaths and basin shape factors,
which affected the PMFs for the projects. Please verify that the GIS dataset for
the Round Valley watershed and other underlying source data are up to date. If
revisions are needed, explain the effects on the associated hydrologic
parameters and resultant PMF.
8. Section 7.0 It is our understanding that except for the April general storm, the
antecedent reservoir level was assumed to be empty and the low-level outlet
was assumed to be open for other critical (October-March) period simulations.
Based on our review of the most recently submitted DSSMR, this condition
may not always be the case. Please evaluate the reservoir conditions against
historical operational reservoir data and provide additional supporting
information for starting reservoir elevations (e.g. reservoir data, guidance from
the FERC Engineering Guidelines Chapter 8). Otherwise, please re-run all the
simulations using normal pool conditions.
9. Evaluate the reliability of the low-level outlet during a flood event to remain
operational if impacted by debris. Please consider the historical reservoir
cycling, debris history/debris buildup in the watershed, lack of
telecommunications, etc. in the evaluation. Provide supporting justifications if
deemed operational.
10. Section 9.0 Wind Wave Analysis Per the USBR Design Standards No. 13-
Chapter 6 Section B.4.1, the wave height statistic used to compute wave runup
should be selected based on the ability of the crest and downstream slope to
withstand overtopping by wave action. According to this section, when the
Page 2 of 3
Comments to the Spillway Rating Curve Enclosure
And Probable Maximum Flood Report
Round Valley Dam
crest and downstream slope are adequately protected against erosion or will not
slough or soften excessively, or when public traffic will not be interrupted, a
wave height equal to the average height of the highest 10 percent of the waves
(1.27 x height of significant wave) should be used to compute wave runup.
Please provide the selection criteria/justification for the selected ratio H/Hs of
1.0 which is associated with a wave height equal to the average height of the
highest 33.3 percent of the waves.
11. Section 11.0 This section described a 15-percent increase in PMF inflow in
comparison to the values used in the 2014 dam break analysis. Upon
finalization and acceptance of the Round Valley PMF Report, please provide a
plan and schedule to update the Round Valley Dam break analysis and
updating the inundation maps for the EAP.
12. We will accept the use of HEC-1 software for this iteration of the Round
Valley PMF study and revisions resulting from comments in this enclosure.
However, please note the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) no longer
supports the HEC-1 software. In future submittals, PG&E should develop
HEC-HMS simulations (either new or using imported HEC-1 data) for
hydrology and flow routing analyses.
13. For future submittals utilizing HEC-HMS, the Exponential Loss Method
should not be used for continuous simulations because it is a function of
cumulative infiltration and does not include any type of recovery (HEC-HMS
Instead future models should use the Initial and Uniform Loss
Method (which is the preferred method described in Chapter 8 of our
Engineering Guidelines) or the Soil Moisture Accounting Method for
continuous simulations with multi-peak rainfall events.
Page 3 of 3
From:"FERC eSubscription"
Subject:Dam Safety Compliance Report submitted in FERC P-619-000 by Pacific Gas and Electric Company,et al.
Date:Tuesday, August 10, 2021 3:15:08 PM
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On 8/10/2021, the following Filing was submitted to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), Washington D.C.:
Filer: Pacific Gas and Electric Company
No Organization Found (as Agent)
Docket(s): P-619-000
Lead Applicant: Pacific Gas and Electric Company
Filing Type: Dam Safety Compliance Report
Description: Pacific Gas and Electric Company submits a schedule update for the Haskins Boat Ramp Replacement Project
at Bucks Storage, which is part Bucks Creek Project under P-619.
To view the document for this Filing, click here
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245 Market Street
tƚǞĻƩ DĻƓĻƩğƷźƚƓ
San Francisco, CA 94105
Mailing Address:
Mail Code N11D
P.O. Box 770000
August 10, 2021
San Francisco, CA 94177
Via Electronic Submittal (E-File)
Frank L. Blackett, P.E. Regional Engineer
Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
Division of Dam Safety and Inspections
San Francisco Regional Office
100 First Street, Suite 2300
San Francisco, CA 94105-3084
RE: Bucks Creek Hydroelectric Project, FERC No. 619-CA
Bucks Storage Dam, NATDAM No. CA00332
Schedule Update Haskins Boat Ramp Replacement
Dear Frank L. Blackett:
schedule update for the Haskins
Boat Ramp
Creek Hydroelectric Project, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) No. 619. The
project authorization request was filed with FERC on April 13, 2021. Since then, PG&E has had
to reconsider the project schedule because of the a short construction season and the extended
powerhouse outages limiting the ability to move water out of Bucks Storage. The construction will
now occur over two seasons. The above water work in fall 2021 and the below water work in fall
2022.
Construction over two years will avoid losing precious water during a critically dry year and allow
construction flexibility. Currently, drawing down Bucks Storage to the necessary elevation would
require PG&E to force a spill at Bucks Storage. In 2022, PG&E has spillway work planned at
Lower Bucks that will require the drawdown of Bucks Storage. Coordinating these projects
together will ensure no spilling occurs and allows for one lake drawdown instead of two.
Moreover, red flag warnings and wildfire induced poor air quality days halt construction. Having
two periods will allow for more fire free days to accommodate those disruptions.
Should you have technical questions
Gavin Rhodes, at (530) 781-1424. For general
coordinator, Jamie Visinoni, at (530) 215-6676.
Sincerely,
Teri Smyly
Manager, FERC and DSOD Compliance
cc: Via Email
John Aedo, FERC/DHAC, John.Aedo@ferc.gov
Shawn Halerz, FERC/DHAC, shawn.halerz@ferc.gov
From:"FERC eSubscription"
Subject:Dam Safety Compliance Report submitted in FERC P-619-000 by Pacific Gas and Electric Company,et al.
Date:Tuesday, August 10, 2021 5:25:07 PM
.ATTENTION: This message originated from outside Butte County. Please exercise judgment before opening attachments, clicking on links, or replying..
On 8/10/2021, the following Filing was submitted to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), Washington D.C.:
Filer: Pacific Gas and Electric Company
No Organization Found (as Agent)
Docket(s): P-619-000
Lead Applicant: Pacific Gas and Electric Company
Filing Type: Dam Safety Compliance Report
Description: Pacific Gas and Electric Company submits a schedule update for the Haskins Boat Ramp Replacement Project at Bucks Storage, under P-619.
To view the document for this Filing, click here
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From:"FERC eSubscription"
Subject:Dam Safety Compliance Report submitted in FERC P-619-000 by Pacific Gas and Electric Company,et al.
Date:Wednesday, August 11, 2021 11:16:40 AM
.ATTENTION: This message originated from outside Butte County. Please exercise judgment before opening
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On 8/11/2021, the following Filing was submitted to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC),
Washington D.C.:
Filer: Pacific Gas and Electric Company
No Organization Found (as Agent)
Docket(s): P-619-000
Lead Applicant: Pacific Gas and Electric Company
Filing Type: Dam Safety Compliance Report
Description: Pacific Gas and Electric Company submits revised Exhibit L-4, Dam and Spillway Grizzly Forebay
drawing, to reflect the Grizzly Forebay Dam Low Level Outlet modifications for the Bucks Creek-Grizzly Project
under P-619.
To view the document for this Filing, click here
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245 Market Street
tƚǞĻƩ DĻƓĻƩğƷźƚƓ
San Francisco, CA 94105
Mailing Address:
Mail Code N11D
P.O. Box 770000
San Francisco, CA 94177
August 11, 2021
Via Electronic Submittal (E-File)
Kimberly D. Bose, Secretary
Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
888 1st Street NE
Washington, DC 20426
RE: Bucks Creek-Grizzly Hydroelectric Project, FERC No. 619-CA
Grizzly Forebay Dam Low Level Outlet Modification - Exhibit L-4 Submission
ENCLOSURE CONTAINS CRITICAL ENERGY INFRASTRUCTURE
INFORMATION (CUI//CEII) - DO NOT RELEASE
Dear Secretary Bose:
This letter submits the as-built Exhibit L-4 drawings following completion of Pacific Gas and
-level outlet modifications at Grizzly Forebay Dam, part of the
Bucks Creek-Grizzly Hydroelectric project, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC)
No. 619. In a letter to PG&E dated July 6, 2021, FERC required PG&E to submit as-built
drawings following completion of construction. Enclosed with this submittal you will find the
revised Exhibit L-4, Dam and Spillway Grizzly Forebay drawing, to reflect the Grizzly Forebay
Dam Low Level Outlet modifications for commission approval.
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, nonessential PG&E staff continue to work remotely,
and hard copy filings are not practical at this time. If FERC requires hard copies of this letter
and enclosure, please contact the license coordinator identified below. If necessary, hard
copies will be sent after PG&E staff return to their normal work locations.
Should you have questions regarding this matter, senior license
coordinator, Jamie Visinoni, at (530) 215-6676.
Sincerely,
Teri Smyly
Manager, FERC and DSOD Compliance
Enclosure: CUI//CEII DO NOT RELEASE
1. P-619-216, L-4, Grizzly Dam & Forebay, 07-06-2021
cc: Via Email
Frank L. Blackett, FERC/SFRO - frank.blackett@ferc.gov
John Aedo, FERC/DHAC - john.aedo@ferc.gov
From:"FERC eSubscription"
Subject:Dam Safety Compliance Report submitted in FERC P-619-000 by Pacific Gas and Electric Company,et al.
Date:Tuesday, August 10, 2021 9:36:00 AM
.ATTENTION: This message originated from outside Butte County. Please exercise judgment before opening attachments, clicking on links, or replying..
On 8/10/2021, the following Filing was submitted to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), Washington D.C.:
Filer: Pacific Gas and Electric Company
No Organization Found (as Agent)
Docket(s): P-619-000
Lead Applicant: Pacific Gas and Electric Company
Filing Type: Dam Safety Compliance Report
Description: Pacific Gas and Electric Company Bucks Diversion (Lower Bucks Lake) Dam Parapet Guardrail Installation Notification under P-619.
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tƚǞĻƩ DĻƓĻƩğƷźƚƓ
245 Market Street
San Francisco, CA 94105
Mailing Address:
Mail Code N11D
P.O. Box 770000
San Francisco, CA 94177
August 9, 2021
Via Electronic Submittal (E-File)
Frank L. Blackett, P.E., Regional Engineer
Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
Division of Dam Safety and Inspections
100 First Street, Suite 2300
San Francisco, CA 94105-3084
RE: Bucks Creek Hydroelectric Project, FERC No. 619-CA
Bucks Diversion (Lower Bucks Lake) Dam, NATDAM No. CA00331
Parapet Guardrail Installation Notification
Dear Frank L. Blackett:
This letter presents Pacific Gas and Electric construction package for
installing a guardrail on the dam crest parapet at Bucks Diversion (Lower Bucks Lake)
Dam, which is part of PG&E
Regulatory Commission (FERC) No. 619. PG&E initiated this project following work to
install an upstream geomembrane liner during which it was discovered that the existing
concrete parapet did not provide adequate height to comply with Occupational Safety and
Health Administration (OSHA) standards. PG&E has designed the guardrail to comply with
OSHA loading and height requirements; and supporting calculations and attachment
details are enclosed with this letter (Enclosure 1) for FERC review.
PG&E plans to install the guardrail immediately after receiving FERC authorization.
The Bucks Diversion Dam has been determined eligible for listing in the National Register
for Historic Places and is a historic property for the purposes of Section 106 of the NHPA.
The installation of a guardrail on the dam crest parapet that is similar in design to the
Rehabilitation; specifically, Standards 1, 2, 9, and 10 (the remaining Standards are not
applicable). As such, the guardrail installation will not have an adverse effect on historic
properties.
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, nonessential PG&E staff continue to work
remotely, and hard copy filings are not practical at this time. If you require hard copies of
the letter and/or enclosure, please provide this request in your response, or contact the
license coordinator identified below. If necessary, hard copies will be sent after PG&E staff
return to their normal work locations.
Frank L. Blackett, P.E., Regional Engineer
August 9, 2021
Page 2
Should you have any te
dam safety engineer, Ben Fontana.
coordinator, Jamie Visinoni, at (530) 215-6676.
Sincerely,
(Robert Ellis, For)
David L. Ritzman, P.E., G.E.
Chief Dam Safety Engineer
Enclosure:
1. Upstream Parapet Install Railing for Bucks Diversion Dam, prepared by Mead and Hunt
and dated June 2021
2724811.2619322
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Profis Anchor 2.8.8
www.hilti.us
1
Company:Page:
Specifier:Project:Lower Bucks Dam
Address:Sub-Project I Pos. No.:
Phone I Fax: | Date:6/10/2021
E-Mail:
Specifier's comments: Handrail anchor bolts
1 Input data
Anchor type and diameter: HIT-HY 200 + HAS-V-36 (ASTM F1554 Gr.36) 1/2
Effective embedment depth: h = 3.000 in. (h = - in.)
ef,actef,limit
Material: ASTM A 1554 Grade 36
Evaluation Service Report: ESR-3187
Issued I Valid: 4/1/2019 | 3/1/2020
Proof: Design method ACI 318-14 / Chem
Stand-off installation: e = 0.000 in. (no stand-off); t = 0.500 in.
b
Anchor plate: l x l x t = 6.500 in. x 3.350 in. x 0.500 in.; (Recommended plate thickness: not calculated
xy
Profile: S shape (AISC), S3X5.7; (L x W x T x FT) = 3.000 in. x 2.330 in. x 0.170 in. x 0.260 in.
Base material: cracked concrete, 2500, f' = 2,500 psi; h = 36.000 in., Temp. short/long: 32/32 F
c
Installation: hammer drilled hole, Installation condition: Dry
Reinforcement: tension: condition B, shear: condition B; no supplemental splitting reinforcement present
edge reinforcement: none or < No. 4 bar
R
- The anchor calculation is based on a rigid anchor plate assumption.
Geometry \[in.\] & Loading \[lb, in.lb\]
Input data and results must be checked for agreement with the existing conditions and for plausibility!
PROFIS Anchor ( c ) 2003-2009 Hilti AG, FL-9494 Schaan Hilti is a registered Trademark of Hilti AG, Schaan
Profis Anchor 2.8.8
www.hilti.us
2
Company:Page:
Specifier:Project:Lower Bucks Dam
Address:Sub-Project I Pos. No.:
Phone I Fax: | Date:6/10/2021
E-Mail:
2 Load case/Resulting anchor forces
y
Load case: Design loads
Compression
Anchor reactions \[lb\]
Tension force: (+Tension, -Compression)
AnchorTension forceShear forceShear force xShear force y
18961600160
28961600160
1x2
Tension
max. concrete compressive strain: 0.17 \[\]
max. concrete compressive stress: 747 \[psi\]
resulting tension force in (x/y)=(0.000/0.000): 1,792 \[lb\]
resulting compression force in (x/y)=(0.000/1.429): 1,792 \[lb\]
Anchor forces are calculated based on the assumption of a rigid anchor plate.
3 Tension load
Load N \[lb\]Capacity N \[lb\]Utilization = N/N Status
f f f f bbbbf f f f
ua
nNuan
Steel Strength*8966,17315OK
Bond Strength**1,7922,59869OK
Sustained Tension Load Bond Strength*N/AN/AN/AN/A
Concrete Breakout Strength**1,7924,30642OK
* anchor having the highest loading **anchor group (anchors in tension)
3.1 Steel Strength
N= ESR value refer to ICC-ES ESR-3187
sa
N N ACI 318-14 Table 17.3.1.1
f
saua
Variables
2
A \[in.\] f \[psi\]
se,N uta
0.1458,000
Calculations
N \[lb\]
sa
8,230
Results
N \[lb\]
N \[lb\] N \[lb\]
f f
sa steel sa ua
8,2300.7506,173896
Input data and results must be checked for agreement with the existing conditions and for plausibility!
PROFIS Anchor ( c ) 2003-2009 Hilti AG, FL-9494 Schaan Hilti is a registered Trademark of Hilti AG, Schaan
Profis Anchor 2.8.8
www.hilti.us
3
Company:Page:
Specifier:Project:Lower Bucks Dam
Address:Sub-Project I Pos. No.:
Phone I Fax: | Date:6/10/2021
E-Mail:
3.2 Bond Strength
A
Na
N= N ACI 318-14 Eq. (17.4.5.1.b)
y y y y
agba
ec1,Naec2,Naed,Nacp,Na
()
A
Na0
N N ACI 318-14 Table 17.3.1.1
f
agua
A= see ACI 318-14, Section 17.4.5.1, Fig. R 17.4.5.1(b)
Na
2
2 c
A= ACI 318-14 Eq. (17.4.5.1c)
()
Na
Na0
t
uncr
c= 10 d ACI 318-14 Eq. (17.4.5.1d)
Naa
1100
1
'
= e 1.0 ACI 318-14 Eq. (17.4.5.3)
y
ec,NaN
()
1 +
c
Na
c
a,min
= 0.7 + 0.3 1.0 ACI 318-14 Eq. (17.4.5.4b)
y
ed,Na
()
c
Na
cc
a,minNa
= MAX, 1.0 ACI 318-14 Eq. (17.4.5.5b)
y
cp,Na
()
cc
acac
N= d h ACI 318-14 Eq. (17.4.5.2)
l t p
baaef
ak,c
Variables
\[psi\] d \[in.\] h \[in.\] c \[in.\] \[psi\]
t at
a ef a,min
k,c,uncroverheadk,c
2,2200.5003.0004.5001.0001,135
e \[in.\] e \[in.\] c \[in.\]
l
c1,N c2,N ac a
0.0000.0004.4271.000
Calculations
2 2
c \[in.\] A \[in.\] A \[in.\]
y
Na Na Na0 ed,Na
7.071167.78200.000.891
N \[lb\]
y y y
ba
ec1,Naec2,Nacp,Na
1.0001.0001.0005,349
Results
N \[lb\] N \[lb\] N \[lb\]
f f
ag bond ag ua
3,9970.6502,5981,792
Input data and results must be checked for agreement with the existing conditions and for plausibility!
PROFIS Anchor ( c ) 2003-2009 Hilti AG, FL-9494 Schaan Hilti is a registered Trademark of Hilti AG, Schaan
Profis Anchor 2.8.8
www.hilti.us
4
Company:Page:
Specifier:Project:Lower Bucks Dam
Address:Sub-Project I Pos. No.:
Phone I Fax: | Date:6/10/2021
E-Mail:
3.3 Concrete Breakout Strength
A
Nc
N= N ACI 318-14 Eq. (17.4.2.1b)
y y y y
cbgb
ec,Ned,Nc,Ncp,N
()
A
Nc0
N N ACI 318-14 Table 17.3.1.1
f
cbgua
Asee ACI 318-14, Section 17.4.2.1, Fig. R 17.4.2.1(b)
Nc
2
A= 9 h ACI 318-14 Eq. (17.4.2.1c)
Nc0ef
1
'
= 2 e 1.0 ACI 318-14 Eq. (17.4.2.4)
y
N
ec,N
()
1 +
3 h
ef
c
a,min
= 0.7 + 0.3 1.0 ACI 318-14 Eq. (17.4.2.5b)
y
ed,N
()
1.5h
ef
c1.5h
a,minef
= MAX, 1.0 ACI 318-14 Eq. (17.4.2.7b)
y
cp,N
()
cc
acac
1.5
'
N= k h ACI 318-14 Eq. (17.4.2.2a)
f
l
bcaef
c
Variables
h \[in.\] e \[in.\] e \[in.\] c \[in.\]
y
ef c1,N c2,N a,min c,N
3.0000.0000.0004.5001.000
'
c \[in.\] k f \[psi\]
l
ac c c
a
4.427171.0002,500
Calculations
2 2
A \[in.\] A \[in.\] N \[lb\]
y y y y
Nc Nc0 b
ec1,Nec2,Ned,Ncp,N
121.5081.001.0001.0001.0001.0004,417
Results
N \[lb\] N \[lb\] N \[lb\]
f f
cbg concrete cbg ua
6,6250.6504,3061,792
Input data and results must be checked for agreement with the existing conditions and for plausibility!
PROFIS Anchor ( c ) 2003-2009 Hilti AG, FL-9494 Schaan Hilti is a registered Trademark of Hilti AG, Schaan
Profis Anchor 2.8.8
www.hilti.us
5
Company:Page:
Specifier:Project:Lower Bucks Dam
Address:Sub-Project I Pos. No.:
Phone I Fax: | Date:6/10/2021
E-Mail:
4 Shear load
Load V \[lb\]Status
Capacity V \[lb\]Utilization = V/V
f f f f bbbbf f f f
uanuan
V
Steel Strength*1603,2115OK
Steel failure (with lever arm)*N/AN/AN/AN/A
Pryout Strength (Bond Strength controls)**3205,5966OK
Concrete edge failure in direction y+**3203,15511OK
* anchor having the highest loading **anchor group (relevant anchors)
4.1 Steel Strength
V= ESR value refer to ICC-ES ESR-3187
sa
V V ACI 318-14 Table 17.3.1.1
f
steelua
Variables
2
A \[in.\] f \[psi\]
se,V uta
0.1458,000
Calculations
V \[lb\]
sa
4,940
Results
V \[lb\] V \[lb\] V \[lb\]
f f
sa sa ua
steel
4,9400.6503,211160
Input data and results must be checked for agreement with the existing conditions and for plausibility!
PROFIS Anchor ( c ) 2003-2009 Hilti AG, FL-9494 Schaan Hilti is a registered Trademark of Hilti AG, Schaan
Profis Anchor 2.8.8
www.hilti.us
6
Company:Page:
Specifier:Project:Lower Bucks Dam
Address:Sub-Project I Pos. No.:
Phone I Fax: | Date:6/10/2021
E-Mail:
4.2 Pryout Strength (Bond Strength controls)
A
Na
V=k N ACI 318-14 Eq. (17.5.3.1b)
y y y y
cpgcpba
ec1,Naec2,Naed,Nacp,Na
\[()\]
A
Na0
V V ACI 318-14 Table 17.3.1.1
f
cpgua
Asee ACI 318-14, Section 17.4.5.1, Fig. R 17.4.5.1(b)
Na
2
2 c
A= ACI 318-14 Eq. (17.4.5.1c)
()
Na
Na0
t
uncr
c= 10 d ACI 318-14 Eq. (17.4.5.1d)
Naa
1100
1
'
= e 1.0 ACI 318-14 Eq. (17.4.5.3)
y
ec,NaN
()
1 +
c
Na
c
a,min
= 0.7 + 0.3 1.0 ACI 318-14 Eq. (17.4.5.4b)
y
ed,Na
()
c
Na
cc
a,minNa
= MAX, 1.0 ACI 318-14 Eq. (17.4.5.5b)
y
cp,Na
()
cc
acac
N= d h ACI 318-14 Eq. (17.4.5.2)
l t p
baaef
ak,c
Variables
k \[psi\] d \[in.\] h \[in.\] c \[in.\] \[psi\]
at t
cp a ef a,min
overheadk,c,uncrk,c
21.0002,2200.5003.0004.5001,135
e \[in.\] e \[in.\] c \[in.\]
l
c1,N c2,N ac a
0.0000.0004.4271.000
Calculations
2 2
c \[in.\] A \[in.\] A \[in.\]
y
Na Na Na0 ed,Na
7.071167.78200.000.891
N \[lb\]
y y y
ba
ec1,Naec2,Nacp,Na
1.0001.0001.0005,349
Results
V \[lb\] V \[lb\] V \[lb\]
f f
cpg concrete cpg ua
7,9950.7005,596320
Input data and results must be checked for agreement with the existing conditions and for plausibility!
PROFIS Anchor ( c ) 2003-2009 Hilti AG, FL-9494 Schaan Hilti is a registered Trademark of Hilti AG, Schaan
Profis Anchor 2.8.8
www.hilti.us
7
Company:Page:
Specifier:Project:Lower Bucks Dam
Address:Sub-Project I Pos. No.:
Phone I Fax: | Date:6/10/2021
E-Mail:
4.3 Concrete edge failure in direction y+
A
Vc
V= V ACI 318-14 Eq. (17.5.2.1b)
y y y y y
cbgb
ec,Ved,Vc,Vh,Vparallel,V
()
A
Vc0
V V ACI 318-14 Table 17.3.1.1
f
cbgua
Asee ACI 318-14, Section 17.5.2.1, Fig. R 17.5.2.1(b)
Vc
2
A= 4.5 c ACI 318-14 Eq. (17.5.2.1c)
Vc0a1
1
'
= 2e 1.0 ACI 318-14 Eq. (17.5.2.5)
y
v
ec,V
()
1 +
3c
a1
c
a2
= 0.7 + 0.3 1.0 ACI 318-14 Eq. (17.5.2.6b)
y
ed,V
()
1.5c
a1
1.5c
a1
= 1.0 ACI 318-14 Eq. (17.5.2.8)
y
h,V
h
a
0.2
l
1.5
'
e
V= c ACI 318-14 Eq. (17.5.2.2a)
df
l
7
baa1
ac
()
()
d
a
Variables
c \[in.\] c \[in.\] e \[in.\] h \[in.\]
y
a1 a2 cV c,V a
4.500-0.0001.00036.000
'
l \[in.\] d \[in.\] f \[psi\]
l y
e a a c parallel,V
3.0001.0000.5002,5001.000
Calculations
2 2
A \[in.\] A \[in.\] V \[lb\]
y y y
Vc Vc0 ec,V ed,V h,V b
121.5091.131.0001.0001.0003,381
Results
V \[lb\] V \[lb\] V \[lb\]
f f
cbg cbg ua
concrete
4,5080.7003,155320
5 Combined tension and shear loads
Utilization \[%\]
bbb Status
z
N V N,V
0.6900.1015/357OK
z z
= + <= 1
bbb
NVNV
6 Warnings
The anchor design methods in PROFIS Anchor require rigid anchor plates per current regulations (ETAG 001/Annex C, EOTA TR029, etc.). This
means load re-distribution on the anchors due to elastic deformations of the anchor plate are not considered - the anchor plate is assumed to be
sufficiently stiff, in order not to be deformed when subjected to the design loading. PROFIS Anchor calculates the minimum required anchor plate
thickness with FEM to limit the stress of the anchor plate based on the assumptions explained above. The proof if the rigid anchor plate
assumption is valid is not carried out by PROFIS Anchor. Input data and results must be checked for agreement with the existing conditions and
for plausibility!
Condition A applies when supplementary reinforcement is used. The factor is increased for non-steel Design Strengths except Pullout Strength
and Pryout strength. Condition B applies when supplementary reinforcement is not used and for Pullout Strength and Pryout Strength. Refer to
your local standard.
Design Strengths of adhesive anchor systems are influenced by the cleaning method. Refer to the INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE given in the
Evaluation Service Report for cleaning and installation instructions
Checking the transfer of loads into the base material and the shear resistance are required in accordance with ACI 318 or the relevant standard!
Installation of Hilti adhesive anchor systems shall be performed by personnel trained to install Hilti adhesive anchors. Reference ACI 318-14,
Section 17.8.1.
Fastening meets the design criteria!
Input data and results must be checked for agreement with the existing conditions and for plausibility!
PROFIS Anchor ( c ) 2003-2009 Hilti AG, FL-9494 Schaan Hilti is a registered Trademark of Hilti AG, Schaan
Profis Anchor 2.8.8
www.hilti.us
8
Company:Page:
Specifier:Project:Lower Bucks Dam
Address:Sub-Project I Pos. No.:
Phone I Fax: | Date:6/10/2021
E-Mail:
7 Installation data
Anchor type and diameter: HIT-HY 200 + HAS-V-36 (ASTM F1554
Anchor plate, steel: -
Gr.36) 1/2
Profile: S shape (AISC), S3X5.7; (L x W x T x FT) = 3.000 in. x 2.330
Installation torque: 360.001 in.lb
in. x 0.170 in. x 0.260 in.
Hole diameter in the fixture: d = 0.563 in. Hole diameter in the base material: 0.563 in.
f
Plate thickness (input): 0.500 in. Hole depth in the base material: 3.000 in.
Recommended plate thickness: not calculated Minimum thickness of the base material: 4.250 in.
Drilling method: Hammer drilled
Cleaning: Compressed air cleaning of the drilled hole according to
instructions for use is required
7.1 Recommended accessories
DrillingCleaningSetting
Suitable Rotary Hammer Compressed air with required accessories Dispenser including cassette and mixer
to blow from the bottom of the hole
Properly sized drill bit Torque wrench
Proper diameter wire brush
y
3.2503.250
1.6751.675
12x
1.6751.675
1.0004.5001.000
Coordinates Anchor in.
cccc
Anchorxy
-x+x-y+y
1-2.2500.000--4.5004.500
22.2500.000--4.5004.500
Input data and results must be checked for agreement with the existing conditions and for plausibility!
PROFIS Anchor ( c ) 2003-2009 Hilti AG, FL-9494 Schaan Hilti is a registered Trademark of Hilti AG, Schaan
Profis Anchor 2.8.8
www.hilti.us
9
Company:Page:
Specifier:Project:Lower Bucks Dam
Address:Sub-Project I Pos. No.:
Phone I Fax: | Date:6/10/2021
E-Mail:
8 Remarks; Your Cooperation Duties
Any and all information and data contained in the Software concern solely the use of Hilti products and are based on the principles, formulas and
security regulations in accordance with Hilti's technical directions and operating, mounting and assembly instructions, etc., that must be strictly
complied with by the user. All figures contained therein are average figures, and therefore use-specific tests are to be conducted prior to using
the relevant Hilti product. The results of the calculations carried out by means of the Software are based essentially on the data you put in.
Therefore, you bear the sole responsibility for the absence of errors, the completeness and the relevance of the data to be put in by you.
Moreover, you bear sole responsibility for having the results of the calculation checked and cleared by an expert, particularly with regard to
compliance with applicable norms and permits, prior to using them for your specific facility. The Software serves only as an aid to interpret norms
and permits without any guarantee as to the absence of errors, the correctness and the relevance of the results or suitability for a specific
application.
You must take all necessary and reasonable steps to prevent or limit damage caused by the Software. In particular, you must arrange for the
regular backup of programs and data and, if applicable, carry out the updates of the Software offered by Hilti on a regular basis. If you do not use
the AutoUpdate function of the Software, you must ensure that you are using the current and thus up-to-date version of the Software in each case
by carrying out manual updates via the Hilti Website. Hilti will not be liable for consequences, such as the recovery of lost or damaged data or
programs, arising from a culpable breach of duty by you.
Input data and results must be checked for agreement with the existing conditions and for plausibility!
PROFIS Anchor ( c ) 2003-2009 Hilti AG, FL-9494 Schaan Hilti is a registered Trademark of Hilti AG, Schaan
From:"FERC eSubscription"
Subject:Dam Safety Compliance Report submitted in FERC P-1121-000,et al. by Pacific Gas and Electric Company,et al.
Date:Monday, August 2, 2021 1:35:33 PM
.ATTENTION: This message originated from outside Butte County. Please exercise judgment before opening attachments, clicking on links, or replying..
On 8/2/2021, the following Filing was submitted to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), Washington D.C.:
Filer: Pacific Gas and Electric Company
Pacific Gas & Electric Company (as Agent)
Docket(s): P-1121-000
P-1354-000
P-137-000
P-175-000
P-1962-001
P-1988-000
P-2105-000
P-2130-000
P-2310-000
P-233-000
P-619-000
P-77-001
P-803-000
P-96-000
Lead Applicant: Pacific Gas and Electric Company
Filing Type: Dam Safety Compliance Report
Description: Pacific Gas and Electric Company submits an update on the status of efforts to address nearterm coming due items and the status of efforts for items not yet resolved
including
Extension of Time requests. under P-77 et. al.
To view the document for this Filing, click here
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245 Market Street
tƚǞĻƩ DĻƓĻƩğƷźƚƓ
San Francisco, CA 94105
Mailing Address:
Mail Code N11D
P.O. Box 770000
San Francisco, CA 94177
July 30, 2021
Via Electronic Submittal (E-File)
Frank L. Blackett, P.E., Regional Engineer
Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
Division of Dam Safety and Inspections
San Francisco Regional Office
100 First Street, Suite 2300
San Francisco, CA 94105-3084
Re: Status Update and Request for Extension of Time
Potter Valley Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 77
Kerckhoff Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 96
Mokelumne River Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 137
Balch Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 175
Pit 3, 4, and 5 Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 233
Bucks Creek Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 619
DeSabla-Centerville Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 803
Battle Creek Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 1121
Crane Valley Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 1354
Rock Creek-Cresta Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 1962
Haas-Kings River Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 1988
Upper North Fork Feather River Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 2105
Spring Gap-Stanislaus Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 2130
Drum-Spaulding Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 2310
Dear Frank L. Blackett:
In accordance with ongoing efforts for
continuous improvement in achieving timely responses to filings requested in
this letter presents in Enclosure 1, an update on the status of efforts to address near-
term coming due items. The status of efforts for items not yet resolved includes
Extension of Time (EOT) requests.
Should you have any technical questions concerning this matter, please contact
PG&E chief dam safety engineer, Dave Ritzman, at (415) 264-1795. For general
Frank L. Blackett, P.E., Regional Engineer
July 30, 2021
Page 2
questions, please contact the Manager of FERC Compliance, Teri Smyly, at (415)
624-4218.
Sincerely,
Teri Smyly
Manager, FERC and DSOD Compliance
Enclosure:
1. Status Update and Extension of Time Request
Date(s) of
8/25/20208/25/20208/25/20208/25/20208/25/20208/25/2020
prior EOTs
9/15/20215/15/20225/15/20225/15/20225/15/20225/15/20225/15/2022
Extension of Time
Proposed Due Date
PG&E Status
PG&E needs additional time to complete internal review processes to file with FERC PG&E's plan to revise the PMF study, and summary of recently completed and ongoing efforts to mitigate
the risks of potential overtopping at the subject dams, along with any additional proposed interim risk reduction measures. PG&E needs additional time to complete FERC exhibit drawing
update processes to note the maximum height of the spillway. PG&E requests an extension of time to complete drawing updates and update the STID before the next Part 12 inspection scheduled
to occur in 2022.PMF values have been revised as a result of efforts to address FERC comments on the PMF study received in a FERC letter to PG&E dated January 29, 2021. PG&E requests
an extension of time to utilize revised PMF values in the evaluation of the parapet wall and rockfill embankment ability to withstand potential overtopping before the next Part 12 inspection
scheduled to occur in 2022.PG&E has updated Section 6 of the STID to include discussion of the spillway rating curve and supporting calculations. However, PG&E requests an extension
of time to complete remaining updates to the STID in progress to file as one STID revision before the next Part 12 inspection scheduled to occur in 2022.PG&E has updated Section 8 of
the STID to include discussion of references justifying the selected material properties in the 1983 stability analyses of record. However, PG&E requests an extension of time to complete
remaining updates to the STID in progress to file as one STID revision before the next Part 12 inspection scheduled to occur in 2022.PMF values have been revised as a result of efforts
to address FERC comments on the PMF study received in a FERC letter to PG&E dated January 29, 2021. PG&E requests an extension of time to utilize revised PMF values in the additional
stability analysis load cases for PMF loading considering Lower Bear reservoir high tailwater before the next Part 12 inspection scheduled to occur in 2022.PG&E requests an extension
of time to utilize revised PMF and DSHR values in the new stability analyses for the maximum section of the spillway before the next Part 12 inspection scheduled to occur in 2022.
3/15/20218/25/20208/25/20208/25/20208/25/20208/25/20208/25/2020
Most Recent
Correspondence
7/31/218/31/21
10/31/21
7/31/20217/31/20217/31/20217/31/2021
Current Due Date
ENCLOSURE 1: STATUS UPDATE AND EXTENSION OF TIME REQUEST
Description
Motherlode Probable Maximum Flood Study RevisionsFERC Comment 4 on 2017 11th P12 Inspection Upper Bear Dam Revise Spillway DrawingsFERC Comment 6 on 2017 11th P12 Inspection Upper Bear
Dam Evaluate Consequences of OvertoppingFERC Comment 7 on 2017 11th P12 Inspection Upper Bear Dam Revise Spillway Rating CurveFERC Comment 8 on 2017 11th P12 Inspection Upper Bear Dam
Material Properties 1983 Stability AnalysisFERC Comment 9 on 2017 11th P12 Inspection Upper Bear Dam Additional Stability Analysis Load CasesFERC Comment 8 on 2017 11th P12 Inspection
Lower Bear Dam Spillway Stability Analysis
Multiple
CA00379CA00379CA00379CA00379CA00379CA00409
Dam No.
No.137
01370137013701370137
FERC 1061
0137, 2130,
Project
3/1/2021
Date(s) of
4/23/20214/23/20214/23/2021
prior EOTs
12/24/202012/24/202012/24/2020
9/15/20218/15/20218/15/20218/31/20219/30/20219/30/202110/1/202110/1/202110/1/20219/30/202110/1/20219/30/20219/30/2021
Extension of Time
Proposed Due Date
PG&E Status
PG&E has completed its evaluation of the accuracy and movements of Balch Afterbay Dam survey monuments, and has developed a plan and schedule for further actions to address R-3. PG&E
requests an extension of time to compelete internal review processes to file with FERC PG&E's status update and plan and schedule for further actions to address R-3.PG&E needs additional
time to complete internal review processes to file with FERC PG&E's status update and plan and schedule for further actions to perform a new temperature study and three-dimension finite
element method model.PG&E needs additional time to complete internal review processes to file with FERC PG&E's status update and plan and schedule for further actions to perform a new
temperature study and three-dimension finite element method model.PG&E needs additional time to complete internal review processes to file PG&E's response and plan and schedule for
further actions.Needs EOT. Cannot bring the gate to full open due to project lic restrictions until early 2022. Request date of 5/30/2022PG&E requests additonal time to complete SAIP
summary table and internal review processPG&E requests additional time to review and respond to FERC's commentsPG&E requests additional time to compile the contruction request/response
to comments to FERCPG&E requests additional time to compile the contruction request/response to comments to FERCPG&E requests additional time to compile the contruction request/response
to comments to FERCPG&E requests addition time to review and respond to FERC's commentsPG&E requests additional time to compile the contruction request/response to comments to FERCPG&E
requests additional time to compile and review the project packages for the spillway work. PG&E requests additional time to compile and review the project packages for the spillway
work.
4/5/20217/7/2021
6/24/20214/23/20217/13/20216/17/20216/17/20211/26/20217/13/20216/29/20214/23/20214/23/2021
12/24/202012/24/2020
Most Recent
Correspondence
7/31/217/31/217/31/217/31/21
8/8/20218/1/20218/1/20218/2/2021
7/31/20217/31/20217/31/20217/31/20218/21/20218/13/2021
Current Due Date
Description
R-3 from 2019 11th P12 Inspection - Balch Afterbay Dam Evaluate Survey MonumentsR-11 & R-12 from 2019 11th P12D Inspection - Balch Afterbay Dam Temperature Study and Structural AnalysisR-12,
R-13, & R-14 from 2019 11th P12 Inspection - Balch Diversion Dam Temperature Study and Structural AnalysisResponse to FERC Comments on 2019 11th P12 Inspection - Balch Afterbay Dam
FERC June 24, 2021 Letter2019 FERC Dam Safety Insp Pit 3, 4, 5 - File with FERC Repair Plan Pit 4 LLO #2Response to FERC Comments on 2017 Lower Bucks Lake Spillway Assessment FERC
3/2/3021 letterResponse to FERC Comments on 2020 11th PART 12D Inspection-Bucks Storage FERC 7/7/21 letterResponse to FERC Comments 2020 PART 12D Inspection - Philbrook Main Dam FERC
6/17/2021 leterResponse to FERC on 2015 PART 12D Inspection Philbrook Saddle Dam, FERC 6/17/21 Letter2020 PART 12D Inspection- Philbrook Main Dam - R5 - complete Weir BW-44 improvementsSAIP
R-8, 9, 10 and 14 Status Update and Construction Summary for Round ValleyResponse to FERC 2019 FERC Annual Dam Safety Inspection DeSabla, FERC 6/29/21 Letter2017 Macumber Spillway Assessment
- File SAIP Mainteneance Repair Authorization2017 North Battle Creek Spillway Assessment - File SAIP Mainteneance Repair Authorization
CA00336CA00336CA00335CA00336CA00397CA00331CA00332CA00345CA00345CA00345CA00346CA00343CA00393CA00394
Dam No.
No.233
0175017501750175061906190803080308030803080311211121
FERC
Project
1/4/2021
Date(s) of
2/26/20214/30/20214/30/20212/26/20214/23/2021
prior EOTs
12/29/202012/29/2020
8/15/20219/15/20219/15/20219/15/20219/15/20219/30/20219/30/20219/30/2021
10/31/202110/15/202110/15/2021
Extension of Time
Proposed Due Date
PG&E Status
PG&E requests additional time to complete internal review processes to file PG&E's project status update and plan and schedule for further actions.PG&E requests additonal time to review
and respond to FERC's commentsPG&E has evaluated the feasibility and benefits of installing strong motion instrumentation at the dam sites. PG&E needs additional time to complete internal
review processes to file PG&E's status update and plan and schedule for further actions.PG&E has completed its study. PG&E needs additional time to complete review with the independent
consultant on proposed plans for further action to address the recommendation.PG&E has updated seismic deformation studies using latest deterministic seismic loads, and results have
been reviewed by the independent consultant. PG&E needs additional time to complete internal review processes to file PG&E's status update and plan and schedule for further actions.
PG&E has completed its study. PG&E needs additional time to complete review with the independent consultant on proposed plans for further action to address the recommendation. PG&E
is in progress to install a secondary system to monitor reservoir-level near the upstream face and spillway of the dam.PG&E has updated seismic deformation studies using latest deterministic
seismic loads, and results have been reviewed by the independent consultant. PG&E needs additional time to complete internal review processes to file PG&E's status update and plan and
schedule for further actions. PG&E has evaluated the feasibility and benefits of installing strong motion instrumentation at the dam sites. PG&E needs additional time to complete internal
review processes to file PG&E's status update and plan and schedule for further actions.PG&E requests additional time to complete the engineering assessment and determine the appropiate
next stepsPG&E requests additonal time to review and respond to FERC's commentsPG&E requests additonal time to complete SAIP summary table and internal review process
1/4/20217/1/20212/7/20202/3/2021
2/26/20214/30/20212/10/20204/30/20212/26/20214/23/20214/21/2021
Most Recent
Correspondence
7/31/20218/15/20217/31/20217/31/20217/31/20217/31/20217/31/20217/31/20217/31/20217/31/20217/31/2021
Current Due Date
Description
R-1 from 2019 11th P12 Inspection - Crane Valley Dam Intake Tower ProjectResponse to FERC Comments on 2020 11th Part 12D Inspection- Cresta Dam FERC 7/1/21 letterR-3 from 2019 11th P12
Inspection -Courtright Dam Install Earthquake Monitoring EquipmentR-6 from 2019 11th P12 Inspection - Courtright Dam Reservoir Level Monitoring and OperationR-9 from 2019 11th P12 Inspection
- Courtright Dam Seismic Deformation StudyR-6 from 2019 11th P12 Inspection - Wishon Dam Reservoir Level Monitoring and OperationR-12 from 2019 11th P12 Inspection - Wishon Dam Seismic
Deformation StudyR-3 from 2019 11th P12 Inspection - Wishon Dam Install Earthquake Monitoring Equipment2020 11th P12D Inspection Belden Forebay Dam - R22 Replace Missing Dam Crest Riprap2019
FERC Ann Dam Safety Inspection Upper North Fork Feather River, File Response to FERC comments or Plan and Schedule to address them2017 Lake Almanor Spillway Assessment, Status Summary
Table
CA00337CA00329CA00412CA00412CA00412CA00411CA00411CA00411CA00413CA00327
Dam No.
No.
13541962198819881988198819881988210521052105
FERC
Project
3/1/2021
Date(s) of
4/23/20214/23/20214/23/20212/26/2021
prior EOTs 5/28/2021
4/23/2021 ,
9/30/20219/30/20219/15/2021
10/31/202110/31/202110/31/202110/31/202110/31/202110/31/202110/31/202110/31/202110/31/2021
Extension of Time
Proposed Due Date
PG&E Status
PG&E requests additonal time to complete SAIP summary table and internal review processPG&E requests additonal time to complete SAIP summary table and internal review processPG&E requests
additonal time to review and respond to FERC's commentsPG&E has assessed the valve and requests additional time to complete internal review of the status update and plan and schedule.PG&E
requests additional time to complete internal review of status update and plan and schedule response to FERC comments on the Blue Lake Part 12D safety inspection report.PG&E has completed
updates to the Exhibit L drawings and is currently working with FERC to determine if the Exhibit F drawings should be filed along with the Exhibit L drawings.PG&E requests additional
time to respond to FERC comments on the 2017 spillway assessment reportsPG&E requests additional time to respond to FERC comments on the 2017 spillway assessment reportsPG&E requests
additional time to respond to FERC comments on the 2017 spillway assessment reportsPG&E's letter to FERC on January 13, 2021 addressing FERC Comment 3, indicated a STID update would
be completed by August 31, 2021. PG&E intends to complete a STID update for Halsey Forebay by October 31, 2021PG&E's letter to FERC on March 1, 2021 adressing R1.3.7, indicated the
next routine update of the STID would be completed by August 31, 2021. PG&E intends to complete a STID update for Spaulding Dam by October 31, 2021PG&E's letter to FERC on December
31, 2021 requested to include the updated exhibit drawing in the next routine STID update. PG&E plans to update the STID for Halsey Aterbay by October 31, 2021
3/1/2021
4/16/20214/15/20214/23/20215/28/20216/17/20214/23/20214/23/20214/23/20211/13/20214/20/20212/26/2021
Most Recent
Correspondence
7/31/218/11/21
7/31/20217/31/20218/31/20217/31/20218/31/20218/31/20218/31/20218/31/20218/31/20218/31/2021
Current Due Date
Description
2017 Butt Valley Spillway Assessment, Status Summary Table2017 Belden Forebay Spillway Assessment, Status Summary Table2018 FERC Annual Dam Safety Inspection, Plan and Schedule for Implementation2018
Part 12D Inspection Fordyce- Provide update on Recommendation 172018 Part 12D Inspection Blue Lake, Respond to FERC CommentsFile w FERC 2 copies revised Exh F & L29 - Lake Valley LLO2017
Kidd Lake Main Spillway Assessment, updated schedule2017 Upper Peak Spillway Assessment, updated schedule2017 Lake Valley Spillway Assessment, updated scheduleConst: Spillway Repairs
Halsey Forebay Spillway, Updated STID2013 Part 12D/Safety Insp Drum Spaulding, Spaulding 2 R1.3.7 STID Update2018 5th P12D Inspection Halsey Afterbay Dam R5: Update Exhibit Drawing
F-53
Multiple
CA00326CA00413CA00357CA00347CA00361CA00354CA00371CA00361CA00352CA83187CA00348
Dam No.
No.
210521052105231023102310231023102310231023102310
FERC
Project
1/8/2021, 1/8/2021, 1/8/2021, 1/8/2021,
Date(s) of
4/23/20212/26/20215/28/20215/28/2021
prior EOTs 4/23/20215/28/20215/28/20215/28/20215/28/2021
8/27/2020,
1/31/20221/31/20221/31/20224/30/20224/30/20224/30/20228/15/2021
10/31/202110/31/202110/31/202110/31/202111/30/2021
Extension of Time
Proposed Due Date
PG&E Status
PG&E requests additional time tor respond to FERC comments on the Meadow Lake sunny day break failure.PG&E requests additional time to provide the results of the video drain inspection
to the IC for review and provide FERC with a status update. No near term issues were noted with the inspection.PG&E requests additional time to revise Figure 5-4 of the STID to address
Recommendation 9 of the 2018 Part 12D safety inspection report.PG&E's letter to FERC on February 26, 2021 requested to submit the updated the STID by August 31, 2021. PG&E plans to
update the STID for Wise Forebay by October 31, 2021PG&E requests additional time to complete internal review processes to file PG&E requests additional time to complete internal review
processes to file PG&E requests additional time to complete internal review processes to file PG&E requests additional time to complete internal review processes to file PG&E requests
additional time to complete internal review processes to file PG&E requests additional time to complete internal review processes to file PG&E requests additional time to complete internal
review processes to file PG&E has completed a cause evaluation and identified corrective measures to address deficiencies identified. PG&E's follow up response is under internal review.
9/2/2020
4/23/20214/23/20215/11/20212/26/20215/28/20215/28/20215/28/20215/28/20215/28/20215/28/20216/17/2021
Most Recent
Correspondence
8/2/2021
8/31/20218/31/20218/31/20218/31/20217/31/20218/31/20218/31/20218/31/20218/31/20218/31/20218/31/2021
Current Due Date
Description
2018 11th P12D Inspection Meadow Lake, Response to Comments 1 & 22018 PART 12D Inspection Fuller Lake, R6: Locate and Clean the Subdrains2018 11th P12D Inspection Wise Forebay R9: Update
to Show Metavolcanic Unit BT2018 11th P12D Inspection Wise Forebay R2: Update Drawing 4203222019 11th Part 12D Inspection- Scott Dam R-14: Inclinometers Feasibility2019 11th Part 12D
Inspection- Scott Dam R-2: Upwelling Investigation2019 11th Part 12D Inspection- Scott Dam R-9: Gallery Piezometers 2019 11th Part 12D Inspection- Scott Dam R-11: BH-3 Outlet Upgrade2019
11th Part 12D Inspection- Scott Dam R-12: Flow Measurement System Install2019 11th Part 12D Inspection- Scott Dam R-21: Staff Gage Added to Gallery Weir2019 11th Part 12D Inspection-
Scott Dam R-30: Contingency Plan for LeaksKerckhoff Dam SCADA Malfunction, Follow-up Corrective Actions
CA00366CA00351CA83198CA83198CA00398CA00398CA00398CA00398CA00398CA00398CA00398CA00340
Dam No.
No.
231023102310231000770077007700770077007700770096
FERC
Project
From:"FERC eSubscription"
Subject:Delegated Order issued in FERC P-619-000
Date:Tuesday, August 10, 2021 10:35:15 AM
.ATTENTION: This message originated from outside Butte County. Please exercise judgment before opening attachments, clicking on links, or replying..
On 8/10/2021, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), Washington D.C., issued this document:
Docket(s): P-619-000
Lead Applicant: Pacific Gas and Electric Company
Filing Type: Delegated Order
Description: Letter order to Pacific Gas and Electric Company accepting the plan and schedule to address the recommendations from the 2017 Focused Spillway Assessment Report for Bucks
Lake
Dam, part of the Bucks Creek Project under P-619.
To view the document for this Issuance, click here
https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://elibrary.ferc.gov/eLibrary/filelist?accession_num=20210810-
3046__;!!KNMwiTCp4spf!U2gSOfRaNOrokPDSYOQAGqs_3iyyZnvtPSsjZa20sIr7UJDh1FPKhpv5VddXmsGggFm_nXoec7o$
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------------------------------------------------------------------------
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or for phone support, call 866-208-3676.
Comments and Suggestions can be sent to this email address: mailto:FERCOnlineSupport@Ferc.gov
FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION
Office of Energy Projects
Division of Dam Safety and Inspections San Francisco Regional Office
100 First Street, Suite 2300
San Francisco, CA 94105-3084
(415) 369-3300 Office (415) 369-3322 Facsimile
August 10, 2021
In reply refer to:
Project No. 619-CA
Mr. Jan Nimick, Vice President
Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E)
Mail Code N11E
P.O. Box 770000
San Francisco, CA 94177-0001
Re: Bucks Lake Dam Focused Spillway Assessment Report
Dear Mr. Nimick:
This is in response to a letter dated April 21, 2021, from Mr. David Ritzman that
submitted a plan and schedule for Bucks Lake Dam, part of the Bucks Creek
Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 619. The plan and schedule to address the
recommendations resulting from the 2017 Focused Spillway Assessment Report by the
dates outlined in letter is acceptable.
File your submittals
https://www.ferc.gov/ferc-online/overview. For all Dam Safety and Public Safety
Documents, select Hydro: Regional Office and San Francisco Regional Office from the
eFiling menu. The cover page of the filing must indicate that the material was eFiled.
For assistance with eFiling, contact FERC Online Support at
FERCOnlineSupport@ferc.gov, (866) 208-3676 (toll free), or (202) 502-8659 (TTY).
We appreciate your continued cooperation in this
safety program. If you have any questions, please contact Mr. Edgar Salire at (415) 369-
3369.
Sincerely,
Frank L. Blackett, P.E.
Regional Engineer
2
cc:
Ms. Sharon Tapia, Chief
CA Dept. of Water Resources
Division of Safety of Dams
P.O. Box 942836
Sacramento, CA 94236-0001
From:"FERC eSubscription"
Subject:Delegated Order issued in FERC P-2107-000
Date:Wednesday, August 11, 2021 9:16:06 AM
.ATTENTION: This message originated from outside Butte County. Please exercise judgment before opening attachments, clicking on links, or
replying..
On 8/11/2021, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), Washington D.C., issued this document:
Docket(s): P-2107-000
Lead Applicant: Pacific Gas and Electric Company
Filing Type: Delegated Order
Description: Letter order authorizing Pacific Gas and Electric Company to proceed with the recreation improvements at the Poe Powerhouse, part of
the Poe Hydroelectric Project under P-2107.
To view the document for this Issuance, click here
https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://elibrary.ferc.gov/eLibrary/filelist?accession_num=20210811-
3031__;!!KNMwiTCp4spf!TIvetoDdRylBSHrT5if7qVnR5LGncyWAhfNGXIyC-k5zalLxV4a8MPC5HXabHuKtVxOddYaDHhs$
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k5zalLxV4a8MPC5HXabHuKtVxOdLhoosfk$
------------------------------------------------------------------------
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Online help is available here:
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k5zalLxV4a8MPC5HXabHuKtVxOdDDo7Wfc$
or for phone support, call 866-208-3676.
Comments and Suggestions can be sent to this email address: mailto:FERCOnlineSupport@Ferc.gov
FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION
Office of Energy Projects
Division of Dam Safety and Inspections San Francisco Regional Office
100 First Street, Suite 2300
San Francisco, CA 94105-3084
(415) 369-3300 Office (415) 369-3322 Facsimile
August 11, 2021
In reply refer to:
Project No. 2107-CA
Mr. Jan Nimick, Vice President
Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) Company
Mail Code N11E
P.O. Box 770000
San Francisco, CA 94177-0001
Re: Authorization Request for Poe Powerhouse Recreation Improvements
Dear Mr. Nimick:
This is in response to a letter dated June 2, 2021 from Ms. Teri Smyly that
submitted an authorization request for Poe Powerhouse Recreation Improvements, part of
the Poe Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 2107. We have reviewed the submittal
and have no comments. PG&E is authorized to proceed with the recreation
improvements at the Poe Powerhouse.
Upon completiton of the construction, please submit a brief report summarizing
the work and any unusual conditions or items that are important to document for future
reference. File your submittal using the Commission's eFiling system at
https://www.ferc.gov/ferc-online/overview. For all Dam Safety and Public Safety
Documents, select Hydro: Regional Office and San Francisco Regional Office from the
eFiling menu. The cover page of the filing must indicate that the material was eFiled.
For assistance with eFiling, contact FERC Online Support at
FERCOnlineSupport@ferc.gov, (866) 208-3676 (toll free), or (202) 502-8659 (TTY).
PG&E is responsible for ensuring completion of any necessary environmental
coordination with resource agencies as well as the procurement of any federal, state, or
local permits required for the work.
2
safety program. If you have any questions, please contact Mr. Rakesh Saigal at (415)
369-3317.
Sincerely,
Frank L. Blackett, P.E.
Regional Engineer
cc:
Ms. Sharon Tapia, Chief
CA Dept. of Water Resources
Division of Safety of Dams
P.O. Box 942836
Sacramento, CA 94236-0001
From:"FERC eSubscription"
Subject:DOCKET CHANGE- Environmental and Recreational Compliance Report submitted in FERC P-803-116 by Pacific Gas and Electric Company,et al.
Date:Monday, August 2, 2021 3:20:01 PM
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replying..
On 7/6/2021, the following Filing was submitted to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), Washington D.C.:
Filer: Pacific Gas and Electric Company
Pacific Gas & Electric Company (as Agent)
Docket(s): P-803-116
Lead Applicant: Pacific Gas and Electric Company
Filing Type: Environmental and Recreational Compliance Report
Description: Pacific Gas and Electric Company submits Follow-up Report on Minimum Instream Flow Deviation at Philbrook Reservoir for
DeSabla-Centerville Hydroelectric Project under P-803.
To view the document for this Filing, click here
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tƚǞĻƩ DĻƓĻƩğƷźƚƓ
245 Market Street
San Francisco, CA 94105
Mailing Address:
Mail Code N11D
P.O. Box 770000
San Francisco, CA 94177
July 6, 2021
Via Electronic Submittal (E-File)
Kimberly D. Bose, Secretary
Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
888 First Street, N. E.
Washington, D.C. 20426
RE: DeSabla-Centerville Hydroelectric Project, FERC No. 803
Report on Minimum Instream Flow Deviation at Philbrook Reservoir
Dear Secretary Bose:
This letter provides the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) with Pacific Gas
-up report of a minimum instream flow (MIF)
deviation that occurred downstream of PG&E's DeSabla-Centerville Hydroelectric Project
(Project), FERC No. 803. The deviation occurred from May 13, 2021 through June 1, 2021,
as measured below the Philbrook Reservoir. The deviation was reported to FERC's San
Francisco Regional Office via email to John Aedo on June 3, 2021 (Enclosure A).
License Requirements
Philbrook Reservoir License Article 39 requires that the licensee (PG&E) maintain
instantaneous minimum flows of two cubic feet per second (cfs) from Philbrook Reservoir
during standard asset operation.
Event and Discussion
Philbrook Reservoir releases provide essential inter-basin water transfer from the West
Branch Feather River to Butte Creek, which harbors the largest remaining population of
Central Valley spring-run Chinook salmon (CVSRCS) (Oncorhynchus tshawytshca) listed
as threatened under the state and federal endangered species acts. PG&E has
maintained an agreement with several interested government and environmental
agencies to annually plan water management activities to benefit the CVSRCS population
in Butte Creek. PG&E regularly coordinates water releases, actions for addressing water
year classification needs, water storage requirements, etc. in support of the CVSRCS in
Butte Creek and in collaboration with the DeSabla Area interested agencies.
and
was attended by interested government agencies. Agreement on minimum instream flow
changes to Philbrook Reservoir, Hendricks Head Dam, and Butte Creek Head Dam were
outcomes from this meeting. Hendricks Head Dam and Butte Creek Head Dam minimum
Kimberly D. Bose, Secretary
July 6, 2021
Page 2
instream flow (MIF) changes were a result of dry water year classification requirements
and do not need FERC approval prior to implementation. Changes to Philbrook Reservoir
MIF requires submission of a variance request and FERC approval prior to
implementation.
Due to an internal communications error, on May 13, 2021 all three of the flow changes
discussed during the annual DeSabla Area Operations meeting were implemented,
including the water year classification changes at Hendricks and Butte Creek Head Dams
and the proposed MIF variance at Philbrook Reservoir.
PG&E personnel identified the unapproved MIF rate reduction on June 1, 2021 during
normal data collection/review processes. Review of the Philbrook Reservoir MIF data
confirmed that flow rates were reduced on May 13, 2021 through June 1, 2021. Table 2
below provides an overview of the Philbrook Reservoir discharge in cfs from May 2, 2021
through June 3, 2021.
Table 1: Philbrook Reservoir Discharge in cfs from 5/2/2021 through 6/3/2021:
Root Cause and Corrective Action
When it was discovered that a communication error led to this under-release, PG&E
implemented an apparent cause evaluation (ACE). The ACE team has interviewed staff
and reviewed internal correspondence. A requirement to route FERC-approved variances
throug
implemented before this process is complete. The ACE is scheduled to be completed on
July 15, 2021.
Biological Evaluation
A qualified PG&E biologist has reviewed this deviation and evaluated the potential for
adverse effects to aquatic resources in the reach downstream of Philbrook Reservoir. After
a review of available information, the PG&E biologist has concluded that it is unlikely the
event had any significant impact given the under release was less than one cfs and the
Kimberly D. Bose, Secretary
July 6, 2021
Page 3
channel remained wetted sufficient to support aquatic life. Furthermore, the MIF reduction
from Philbrook Reservoir was supported by DeSabla Area interested agencies in the
proposed variance request to FERC and is intended to support the large population of
CVSRCS in Butte Creek. The MIF reduction would conserve water for release later in the
summer months when naturally higher ambient air and water temperatures in Butte Creek
increase stress and mortality before the CVSRCS population has an opportunity to
complete their life cycle.
On June 10, 2021, PG&E held the 2021 DeSabla-Centerville Operations and Maintenance
Plan Meeting with California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), the United States
Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), the United States Forest Service (USFS), and
National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), and the State Water Resources Control Board
(SWRCB) (Hereafter Agencies). At this meeting it was shared that the potential MIF
deviation described in this report had occurred, the agencies had no questions or concerns
that were shared with PG&E.
Summary
PG&E has created safeguards in the current Project flow compliance interface to prevent
such errors in the future. PG&E personnel took actions to increase flows at Lake Philbrook
as soon as the deviation was discovered. Due to the short duration of the deviation and the
small under release (less than 1 cfs), no adverse effects to aquatic species were noted nor
expected.
license coordinator, Jackie Pope, at
530-254-4007.
Sincerely,
Teri Smyly
Manager, FERC and DSOD Compliance
Enclosure:
1. June 3, 2021 Email to FERC regarding potential minimum instream flow deviation
ENCLOSURE 1
From:Prentice, Russell
To:Frank Blackett; "John Aedo - FERC SFRO"; Vinh Tran; John Onderdonk
Cc:Nimick, Jan; Zawalick, Maureen; Baldwin, Thomas; Prentice, Russell; Rossi, Elisabeth; Smyly, Teri; Ritzman,
Dave; Van Deuren, Eric; Weber, Ryan; Lindblom, Kelly; Pope, Jackie
Subject:DeSabla Centerville Project (FERC No. 803) - Potential Minimum Instream Flow Deviation
Date:Thursday, June 3, 2021 5:37:25 PM
Dear Mr. Aedo,
As a follow up to our phone conversation, this email provides a courtesy notification of a potential
minimum instream flow (MIF) deviation from Philbrook Reservoir to Philbrook Creek on the DeSabla
Centerville Project (FERC No. 803). Initial review indicates no adverse biological impacts.
The potential deviation occurred from May 13, 2021 to June 1, 2021. PG&E will retrieve data loggers
and review flow data to confirm the MIF deviation as specified by License Article 39 which requires
that the licensee maintain instantaneous minimum flows of 2 cubic feet per second (cfs) from
Philbrook Reservoir during dry water years. Preliminary data indicate MIF from Philbrook Reservoir
dropped to 1.3cfs during this time period. PG&E has initiated a cause evaluation to understand the
causes and establish corrective actions. PG&E plans to file a follow up report with the FERC
Secretary within 30 days from the date of this notification. Please reach out to me if you have any
questions concerning this matter.
Thank you,
Russ Prentice
Pacific Gas and Electric Company
Director, Generation Risk and Compliance
805.550.3775 cell | rnpz@pge.com
From:"FERC eSubscription"
Subject:Drawing/Maps submitted in FERC P-619-000 by Pacific Gas and Electric Company,et al.
Date:Wednesday, August 11, 2021 12:25:03 PM
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attachments, clicking on links, or replying..
On 8/11/2021, the following Filing was submitted to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC),
Washington D.C.:
Filer: Pacific Gas and Electric Company
No Organization Found (as Agent)
Docket(s): P-619-000
Lead Applicant: Pacific Gas and Electric Company
Filing Type: Drawing/Maps
Project Operations Compliance Report
Description: Pacific Gas and Electric Company submits revised Exhibit L-4, Dam and Spillway Grizzly Forebay
drawing, to reflect the Grizzly Forebay Dam Low Level Outlet modifications for the Bucks Creek-Grizzly Project
under P-619.
To view the document for this Filing, click here
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245 Market Street
tƚǞĻƩ DĻƓĻƩğƷźƚƓ
San Francisco, CA 94105
Mailing Address:
Mail Code N11D
P.O. Box 770000
San Francisco, CA 94177
August 11, 2021
Via Electronic Submittal (E-File)
Kimberly D. Bose, Secretary
Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
888 1st Street NE
Washington, DC 20426
RE: Bucks Creek-Grizzly Hydroelectric Project, FERC No. 619-CA
Grizzly Forebay Dam Low Level Outlet Modification - Exhibit L-4 Submission
ENCLOSURE CONTAINS CRITICAL ENERGY INFRASTRUCTURE
INFORMATION (CUI//CEII) - DO NOT RELEASE
Dear Secretary Bose:
This letter submits the as-built Exhibit L-4 drawings following completion of Pacific Gas and
-level outlet modifications at Grizzly Forebay Dam, part of the
Bucks Creek-Grizzly Hydroelectric project, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC)
No. 619. In a letter to PG&E dated July 6, 2021, FERC required PG&E to submit as-built
drawings following completion of construction. Enclosed with this submittal you will find the
revised Exhibit L-4, Dam and Spillway Grizzly Forebay drawing, to reflect the Grizzly Forebay
Dam Low Level Outlet modifications for commission approval.
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, nonessential PG&E staff continue to work remotely,
and hard copy filings are not practical at this time. If FERC requires hard copies of this letter
and enclosure, please contact the license coordinator identified below. If necessary, hard
copies will be sent after PG&E staff return to their normal work locations.
Should you have questions regarding this matter, senior license
coordinator, Jamie Visinoni, at (530) 215-6676.
Sincerely,
Teri Smyly
Manager, FERC and DSOD Compliance
Enclosure: CUI//CEII DO NOT RELEASE
1. P-619-216, L-4, Grizzly Dam & Forebay, 07-06-2021
cc: Via Email
Frank L. Blackett, FERC/SFRO - frank.blackett@ferc.gov
John Aedo, FERC/DHAC - john.aedo@ferc.gov
From:"FERC eSubscription"
Subject:Government Agency Submittal submitted in FERC P-619-000 by USFWS,et al.
Date:Wednesday, August 11, 2021 4:35:07 PM
.ATTENTION: This message originated from outside Butte County. Please exercise judgment before opening
attachments, clicking on links, or replying..
On 8/11/2021, the following Filing was submitted to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC),
Washington D.C.:
Filer: USFWS
Fish and Wildlife Services (as Agent)
Docket(s): P-619-000
Lead Applicant: Pacific Gas and Electric Company
Filing Type: Government Agency Submittal
Description: U.S Fish and Wildlife Concurrence Letter for the Haskins Valley Boat Ramp Replacement Project
Section 7 consultation under the Bucks Creek Project under P-619.
To view the document for this Filing, click here
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or for phone support, call 866-208-3676.
BEFORE THE
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I hereby certify that U.S Fish and Wildlife ServiceConcurrence letter on the Informal Section 7
Consultation on the Haskins Valley Boat Ramp Replacement Project, Federal Energy Regulatory
Commission Project #P-619 has this day been electronically filed with the Federal Energy
Regulatory Commission and served, via deposit in U.S. mail or by electric mail, upon each other
person designated on the Service List for Project P-619 compiled by the Commission Secretary.
th
Dated at Sacramento, California, this 11 of August, 2021.
A. Leigh Bartoo
San Francisco Bay-Delta Fish and Wildlife Office
650 Capitol Mall, Suite 8-300
Sacramento, CA 95814
(916) 930-5603
United States Department of the Interior
FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE
San Francisco Bay-Delta Fish & Wildlife Office
650 Capitol Mall, Suite 8-300
Sacramento, California 95814-4700
In reply refer to:
08FBDT00-2021-I-0213
August 10, 2021
Kimberly Bose, Secretary
Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
888 First Street NE
Washington, D.C. 20426
Subject: Informal Section 7 Consultation on the Haskins Valley Boat Ramp Replacement
Project, Bucks Creek Hydroelectric Project, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission # P-619,
Plumas County, California
Dear Ms. Bose:
This letter is in response to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission’s (Commission) July 19,
2021, request to initiate consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) for
Pacific Gas and Electric’s and the City of Santa Clara’s (Licensees) Haskins Valley Boat Ramp
Replacement Project (Project) located within the Bucks Creek Hydroelectric Project
(Commission # P-619) in Plumas County, California. Your request was received electronically
by the USFWSon July 20, 2021. At issue are the proposed Project’s effects to the federally-
listed endangered Sierra Nevada yellow-legged frog (Rana sierrae). This response is provided
under the authority of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.)
(Act), and in accordance with the implementing regulations pertaining to interagency
cooperation (50 CFR § 402).
The Sierra Nevada yellow-legged frog (frog) was listed as endangered under the ESA on April
29, 2014 (79 FR 24255) and critical habitat was established on August 26, 2016 (81 FR 59045).
Critical habitat occurs in a portion of the Project area, in one of the staging areas. The closest
known occurrence for the frog is in Bear Ravine, approximately 3.5 miles from the Project area.
The Haskins Valley area was surveyed for the frog in 2015, 2016, 2020, and 2021 with no
detections.
In considering your request, we have based our evaluation on the following: (1) the Biological
Assessment (BA) dated February 11, 2021, (2) July 19, 2021, letter requesting informal
consultation; (2) electronic mail (email) correspondence between the USFWS and the Licensees,
exchanged from May 11, 2020 to August 6, 2021; and (3) other information available to the
USFWS.
Ms. Kimberly Bose, Secretary2
Project Description
The Haskins Valley boat ramp is a feature within Bucks Lake (Haskins Valley area) and is a
component of the Bucks Creek Project (Commission # P-619). The Licensees have determined
that the boat ramp is sufficiently damaged that full replacement is necessary. The Licensees plan
to conduct Project activities from September through November 2021 and also from September
through November 2022. In the BA, the Licensees originally planned to conduct all Project
activities in 2021, however the Dixie Fire subsequently impacted the Bucks Creek Project area
such that some activities will need to be delayed to the fall of 2022. Project activities likely
would have been covered under the Bucks Creek Project Biological Opinion (08FBDT00-2019-
F-0226), issued December 23, 2019, however the Commission has not yet issued that license.
To maintain consistency with the previous consultation, the Licensees have utilized many of the
same conservation measures for this Project as in the 2019 Biological Opinion.
The proposed Project includes demolition of the existing boat ramp, construction of an
Armorflex concrete mat replacement boat ramp, new pavement on the access road, turnaround,
and parking areas, and rock slope protection along the access road, parking area, and boat ramp.
The existing boat ramp is approximately 12 feet wide and constructed in 1967. The staging areas
that will be utilized were the previously identified Staging Area 3 (from the previous Biological
Opinion) and the paved areas of the Haskins Valley campground and boat ramp areas.
Before any activities begin on the ramp itself, the Licensees will draw down Bucks Lake water
elevation to 5130 feet, five feet below the elevation of the bottom of the ramp. As the minimum
elevation needed for safe boating on Bucks Lake is 5137 feet, the Licensees will not begin draw
down until after Labor Day in 2022 to minimize impacts to recreation. Due to impacts from the
Dixie Fire, no water drawdown is anticipated to occur in 2021. Demolition and placement of the
new ramp are anticipated to occur in the fall of 2022 after draw down, while Project activities
outside of the high water area of Bucks Lake are anticipated to take place in both the fall of 2021
and 2022.
The replacement boat ramp will be 16 feet wide, 210 feet long, and will maintain the same
location and orientation of the existing boat ramp. A dump truck, spreader, and excavator will
assist in the demolition and new ramp placement as well as the new paving areas. All demolition
and construction will take place from dry land or within the exposed shoreline of Bucks Lake
after draw down. Approximately 301 cubic yards of rock slope protection will reduce potential
erosion and restrict vehicular access to designated areas. The new ramp will consist of
interlocking premade concrete paver blocks (63 cubic yards).
Conservation Measures
The Licensees proposes to implement the following conservation measures to minimize the
effects of the proposed Project on the frog:
General Measures:
Ms. Kimberly Bose, Secretary3
1. Environmental awareness training will be provided to all construction personnel at the
start of the Project and will include a review of sensitive resources (frog, nesting birds,
wetlands/aquatic habitats, and invasive weeds) and the associated conservation measures
to be implemented during Project activities.
2. No vehicles or equipment will be refueled within 100 feet of wetlands, streams, or other
waterways, except within secondary containment that shall be designed to contain any
possible spills. Vehicles operating adjacent to wetlands and waterways will be inspected
and maintained daily to prevent leaks.
3. Stationary equipment (e.g., pumps and generators) used or stored within 100 feet of
aquatic habitat will be positioned over secondary containment.
4. Extreme caution will be exercised when handling and or storing chemicals (fuel,
hydraulic fluid, etc.) near waterways; all applicable laws/regulations and best
management practices will be abided by.
5. Spill kits will be kept onsite and all hazardous spills will be cleaned up and reported
immediately.
6. Waterways and storm drains will be protected with silt fence, fiber rolls, erosion control
blankets, and other Storm Water Best Management Practices as necessary along work
area boundaries prior to initiating activity and will be maintained through the duration of
Project activities. No fill, including vegetation trimmings, debris, or runoff will be
allowed to enter wetland areas or waterways.
7. Erosion control materials shall be installed per manufacturing material specifications and
must not contain monofilament netting.
8. If turbidity is observed in Bucks Lake adjacent to the work area, work will stop until the
water clears. The water quality specialist will be notified for each such occurrence, and
work shall not resume until authorized by them.
9. If sheen is observed in Bucks Lake adjacent to the work area work will stop and boom
material will be placed to contain and clean up the sheen. The Environmental Field
Specialist will be notified for each such occurrence, and work shall not resume until
authorized by them.
10. When accessing work sites, limit travel and parking of vehicles and equipment to
pavement, existing roads, and previously disturbed areas (except where overland travel is
required).
11. Ground disturbance and vegetation removal should not exceed the minimum amount
necessary to complete work at the site.
12. If a plant or animal is found at the work site and is believed to be a protected species,
work shall stop in that area and the Project biologist Larry Wise (925-785-8831,
Lawrence.Wise@pge.com) will be contacted for guidance. Care shall be taken not to
harm the plant or animal species.
13. No wildlife species shall be handled and/or removed from the site by anyone except
qualified biologists.
14. Wildlife found in work areas shall be allowed to move out of the area on their own. If the
animal does not move out of the area on its own, the Project biologist will be contacted
for further direction.
15. To avoid crushing wildlife, construction personnel will look under all vehicles and
equipment prior to moving them.
16. Cover or install escape ramps if open trenches or holes are left open overnight. Inspect
Ms. Kimberly Bose, Secretary4
open trenches or holes every morning prior to work for trapped wildlife. If any wildlife
is found, the Project biologist will be notified immediately.
17. Following the completion of the Project, all construction materials, spoils, or other debris
should be removed from the project site.
18. Work areas will be returned to preexisting contours and conditions upon completion of
work.
Sierra Nevada Yellow-legged Frog Conservation Measures:
1. Prior to the start of work, preconstruction surveys shall be conducted within the Project area.
Surveys shall encompass all suitable habitat within 300 feet of these areas. Two surveys
shall be conducted: the first in the late spring/early summer after snow melt, which shall
include visual encounter surveys and eDNA sampling (occurred on June 9, 2021). The
second shall be conducted within 24 hoursof the start of work and will include a visual
encounter survey in the Project areas. These surveys shall be conducted by a qualified
biologist as specified in the previous Biological Opinion. USFWS-accepted decontamination
protocols will be followed during all surveys.
2. In-water work will not be conducted during the Limited Operating Period for the frog, which
extends from November 1 to April 15.
3. Annual Employee Training for staff (employees and contractors) will include a description of
the frog and their habitat, as well as protection measures outlined in the Plan.
4. All heavy equipment, vehicles, and activities will be confined to existing access roads, road
shoulders, staging areas, and disturbed or designated parking and work areas where
conditions allow. Equipment, when not in use, will be stored in upland areas away from all
waterbodies.
5. The Licensees may be required to periodically travel off-road to retrieve/remove cut hazard
trees and other vegetation from areas lacking roads (e.g., campgrounds) for public/facility
safety or for other Project activities. Access to/from work areas will follow the safest route
with the least potential for resource damage.
6. If work is required in off-road areas in suitable habitat, a qualified biologist will clearthe
work area before work proceeds.
7. Vehicles and equipment will not be maintained or refueled in areas where hazardous
materials may enter a stream or lake (minimum of 107 feetfrom waterways). All equipment
will be well maintained to prevent leaks of fuels, lubricants, or otherfluids. All equipment
and the ground underneath such equipment will be inspected prior to be being brought on
site, and daily while on site for evidence of leaks. Any leaking equipment will be removed
from the site immediately and repaired before being allowed to return to any of the
Licensees’ work sites.
8. Extreme caution will be used and all applicable laws and regulations will be followed when
handling and/or storing chemicals (e.g., fuel, hydraulic fluid, pesticides, etc.). Chemicals
should not be stored near waterways, except within existing Project buildings designated for
such storage. Mixing of chemicals should be done no closer than 300 feet from suitable frog
aquatic habitat. All applicable hazardous waste best management practices will be followed.
Appropriate materials will be on site to prevent and manage spills.
9. When possible, activities near wetlands, waterways, or on saturated soils will be conducted
during the dry season. If work is necessary during the rainy season, it should be conducted
Ms. Kimberly Bose, Secretary5
during dry spells between rain events.
10. Vegetation removal and ground disturbance will not exceed the minimum amount necessary
to complete work.
11. Spoil sites will not be located within any waterbodies or aquatic habitat (including meadows)
where spoils may be washed back into any waterbodies or aquatic habitat or where it may
cover aquatic or riparian vegetation.
12. Vegetation trimmings, debris, fill, litter, or other materials that may be deleterious toaquatic
life will not be placed within 300 feet of suitable habitat for the frog. All trash and waste
items generated by Project or personnel activities will be properly contained and removed
from the Project area at the end of each workday to prevent attracting wildlife to thearea.
13. If a frog is encountered, the general procedure is to leave the animal alone. If a frog is
encountered in an active Project area, the first priority is to stop all activities in the
surrounding area that may have the potential to result in take (e.g., harassment, injury, or
death) of the individual. A photograph will be taken (without handling the frog), and shared
with the biologist. If the biologist determines that it is a Sierra Nevada yellow-legged frog, it
will be permitted to leave the project area on its own. If it does not leave, work will be
delayed until the frog leaves the area. Work will not resume until the situation has been
resolved to the biologist’s satisfaction. The Licensees will contact the Bay-Delta Fish and
Wildlife Office, U.S.D.A. Forest Service, and California Department of Fish and Wildlife
within 48 hours. The sighting location will be documented with GPS and reported to the
California Natural Diversity Database.
14. Before moving vehicles and heavy equipment, Project personnel will check for amphibians
and other wildlife to ensure they are not crushed.
15. The Licensees will use erosion control materials composed entirely of natural-fiber
biodegradable materials within 107 feet of frog suitable habitat. Geotextiles, fiber rolls, and
other erosion control measures shall be made of loose-weave mesh, such as jute, coconut
(coir) fiber, or other products without welded weaves. Synthetic (e.g., plastic or nylon)
mono-filament netting will not be used for erosion control or other purposes within 107 feet
of frog suitable habitat to ensure that individuals do not get entangled, trapped, injured, or
killed.
Given the above mentioned conservation measures, and since no frogs have been detected in the
Haskins Valley area since 1991 (even though surveys have occurred in several intervening
years), the USFWS concurs with the Commission/Licensees’ determination that the proposed
Project may affect, but is not likely to adversely affect the frog. This conclusion is based on: (1)
the absence of detections in the area over multiple decades; (2)low suitability of habitat within
Bucks Lake (due to the presence of fish in the lake known to feed on frog eggs and tadpoles); (3)
any impacts to habitat are anticipated to be minor, localized and temporary; (4) preconstruction
surveys will occur; and (5) the proposed conservation measures would appropriately reduce any
remaining likelihood of impacts to the frog.
REINITIATION – CLOSING STATEMENT
This concludes consultation for Haskins Valley Boat Ramp Replacement Project. As provided in
50 CFR § 402.16,
Ms. Kimberly Bose, Secretary6
(a) Reinitiation of consultation is required and shall be requested by the Federal agency or by the
USFWS, where discretionary Federal involvement or control over the action has been retained or
is authorized by law and:
(1) If the amount or extent of taking specified in the incidental take statement is exceeded;
(2) If new information reveals effects of the action that may affect listed species or critical
habitat in a manner or to an extent not previously considered;
(3) If the identified action is subsequently modified in a manner that causes an effect to the
listed species or critical habitat that was not considered in the biological opinion or written
concurrence; or
(4) If a new species is listed or critical habitat designated that may be affected by the
identified action.
(b) An agency shall not be required to reinitiate consultation after the approval of a land
management plan prepared pursuant to 43 U.S.C. 1712 or 16 U.S.C. 1604 upon listing of a new
species or designation of new critical habitat if the land management plan has been adopted by
the agency as of the date of listing or designation, provided that any authorized actions that may
affect the newly listed species or designated critical habitatwill be addressed through a separate
action-specific consultation. This exception to reinitiation of consultation shall not apply to
those land management plans prepared pursuant to 16 U.S.C. 1604 if:
(1) Fifteen years have passed since the date the agency adopted the land management plan
prepared pursuant to 16 U.S.C. 1604; and
(2) Five years have passed since the enactment of Public Law 115-141 \[March 23, 2018\] or
the date of the listing of a species or the designation of critical habitat, whichever is later.
Please address any question or concern regarding this response by contacting A. Leigh Bartoo,
Fish and Wildlife Biologist by email atAondrea_bartoo@fws.gov.
Sincerely,
Daniel Welsh
DeputyField Supervisor
Ms. Kimberly Bose, Secretary7
Electronic Copy Furnished:
CDFW—Michael Maher
Forest Service—Amy Lind
SWRCB—Amber Villalobos
PG&E—Larry Wise
City of Santa Clara—Steve Hance
Plumas County—Tracey Ferguson
From:"FERC eSubscription"
Subject:Government Agency Submittal submitted in FERC P-619-000 by USFWS,et al.
Date:Thursday, August 12, 2021 3:45:39 AM
.ATTENTION: This message originated from outside Butte County. Please exercise judgment before opening attachments, clicking on links, or replying..
On 8/11/2021, the following Filing was submitted to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), Washington D.C.:
Filer: USFWS
Fish and Wildlife Services (as Agent)
Docket(s): P-619-000
Lead Applicant: Pacific Gas and Electric Company
Filing Type: Government Agency Submittal
Description: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service submits Concurrence Letter for the Haskins Valley Boat Ramp Replacement Project Section 7 consultation under the Bucks Creek Project under
P-619.
To view the document for this Filing, click here
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5131__;!!KNMwiTCp4spf!XVDlkbK7a3pO6IkXjvabV9PxAfzTU5TG06uLd5OuYlj6DZ2PzOwpMZ7kdxUbxfm_HpvPEAZDWN0$
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or for phone support, call 866-208-3676.
From:"FERC eSubscription"
Subject:Government Agency Submittal submitted in FERC P-619-000 by USFWS,et al.
Date:Wednesday, August 11, 2021 12:07:23 PM
.ATTENTION: This message originated from outside Butte County. Please exercise judgment before opening attachments, clicking on links, or replying..
On 8/11/2021, the following Filing was submitted to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), Washington D.C.:
Filer: USFWS
Fish and Wildlife Services (as Agent)
Docket(s): P-619-000
Lead Applicant: Pacific Gas and Electric Company
Filing Type: Government Agency Submittal
Description: U.S Fish and Wildlife Concurrence Letter for the Haskins Valley Boat Ramp Replacement Project Section 7 consultation under the Bucks Creek Project under P-619.
To view the document for this Filing, click here
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5131__;!!KNMwiTCp4spf!QjGrrPKEVdTN9UJ49N4iPbuN1ur95YoDtA5MhmHIpf9K27UWVDd3oTpA3thZD_MrfBc-Pw6dsiM$
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or for phone support, call 866-208-3676.
BEFORE THE
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I hereby certify that U.S Fish and Wildlife ServiceConcurrence letter on the Informal Section 7
Consultation on the Haskins Valley Boat Ramp Replacement Project, Federal Energy Regulatory
Commission Project #P-619 has this day been electronically filed with the Federal Energy
Regulatory Commission and served, via deposit in U.S. mail or by electric mail, upon each other
person designated on the Service List for Project P-619 compiled by the Commission Secretary.
th
Dated at Sacramento, California, this 11 of August, 2021.
A. Leigh Bartoo
San Francisco Bay-Delta Fish and Wildlife Office
650 Capitol Mall, Suite 8-300
Sacramento, CA 95814
(916) 930-5603
United States Department of the Interior
FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE
San Francisco Bay-Delta Fish & Wildlife Office
650 Capitol Mall, Suite 8-300
Sacramento, California 95814-4700
In reply refer to:
08FBDT00-2021-I-0213
August 10, 2021
Kimberly Bose, Secretary
Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
888 First Street NE
Washington, D.C. 20426
Subject: Informal Section 7 Consultation on the Haskins Valley Boat Ramp Replacement
Project, Bucks Creek Hydroelectric Project, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission # P-619,
Plumas County, California
Dear Ms. Bose:
This letter is in response to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission’s (Commission) July 19,
2021, request to initiate consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) for
Pacific Gas and Electric’s and the City of Santa Clara’s (Licensees) Haskins Valley Boat Ramp
Replacement Project (Project) located within the Bucks Creek Hydroelectric Project
(Commission # P-619) in Plumas County, California. Your request was received electronically
by the USFWSon July 20, 2021. At issue are the proposed Project’s effects to the federally-
listed endangered Sierra Nevada yellow-legged frog (Rana sierrae). This response is provided
under the authority of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.)
(Act), and in accordance with the implementing regulations pertaining to interagency
cooperation (50 CFR § 402).
The Sierra Nevada yellow-legged frog (frog) was listed as endangered under the ESA on April
29, 2014 (79 FR 24255) and critical habitat was established on August 26, 2016 (81 FR 59045).
Critical habitat occurs in a portion of the Project area, in one of the staging areas. The closest
known occurrence for the frog is in Bear Ravine, approximately 3.5 miles from the Project area.
The Haskins Valley area was surveyed for the frog in 2015, 2016, 2020, and 2021 with no
detections.
In considering your request, we have based our evaluation on the following: (1) the Biological
Assessment (BA) dated February 11, 2021, (2) July 19, 2021, letter requesting informal
consultation; (2) electronic mail (email) correspondence between the USFWS and the Licensees,
exchanged from May 11, 2020 to August 6, 2021; and (3) other information available to the
USFWS.
Ms. Kimberly Bose, Secretary2
Project Description
The Haskins Valley boat ramp is a feature within Bucks Lake (Haskins Valley area) and is a
component of the Bucks Creek Project (Commission # P-619). The Licensees have determined
that the boat ramp is sufficiently damaged that full replacement is necessary. The Licensees plan
to conduct Project activities from September through November 2021 and also from September
through November 2022. In the BA, the Licensees originally planned to conduct all Project
activities in 2021, however the Dixie Fire subsequently impacted the Bucks Creek Project area
such that some activities will need to be delayed to the fall of 2022. Project activities likely
would have been covered under the Bucks Creek Project Biological Opinion (08FBDT00-2019-
F-0226), issued December 23, 2019, however the Commission has not yet issued that license.
To maintain consistency with the previous consultation, the Licensees have utilized many of the
same conservation measures for this Project as in the 2019 Biological Opinion.
The proposed Project includes demolition of the existing boat ramp, construction of an
Armorflex concrete mat replacement boat ramp, new pavement on the access road, turnaround,
and parking areas, and rock slope protection along the access road, parking area, and boat ramp.
The existing boat ramp is approximately 12 feet wide and constructed in 1967. The staging areas
that will be utilized were the previously identified Staging Area 3 (from the previous Biological
Opinion) and the paved areas of the Haskins Valley campground and boat ramp areas.
Before any activities begin on the ramp itself, the Licensees will draw down Bucks Lake water
elevation to 5130 feet, five feet below the elevation of the bottom of the ramp. As the minimum
elevation needed for safe boating on Bucks Lake is 5137 feet, the Licensees will not begin draw
down until after Labor Day in 2022 to minimize impacts to recreation. Due to impacts from the
Dixie Fire, no water drawdown is anticipated to occur in 2021. Demolition and placement of the
new ramp are anticipated to occur in the fall of 2022 after draw down, while Project activities
outside of the high water area of Bucks Lake are anticipated to take place in both the fall of 2021
and 2022.
The replacement boat ramp will be 16 feet wide, 210 feet long, and will maintain the same
location and orientation of the existing boat ramp. A dump truck, spreader, and excavator will
assist in the demolition and new ramp placement as well as the new paving areas. All demolition
and construction will take place from dry land or within the exposed shoreline of Bucks Lake
after draw down. Approximately 301 cubic yards of rock slope protection will reduce potential
erosion and restrict vehicular access to designated areas. The new ramp will consist of
interlocking premade concrete paver blocks (63 cubic yards).
Conservation Measures
The Licensees proposes to implement the following conservation measures to minimize the
effects of the proposed Project on the frog:
General Measures:
Ms. Kimberly Bose, Secretary3
1. Environmental awareness training will be provided to all construction personnel at the
start of the Project and will include a review of sensitive resources (frog, nesting birds,
wetlands/aquatic habitats, and invasive weeds) and the associated conservation measures
to be implemented during Project activities.
2. No vehicles or equipment will be refueled within 100 feet of wetlands, streams, or other
waterways, except within secondary containment that shall be designed to contain any
possible spills. Vehicles operating adjacent to wetlands and waterways will be inspected
and maintained daily to prevent leaks.
3. Stationary equipment (e.g., pumps and generators) used or stored within 100 feet of
aquatic habitat will be positioned over secondary containment.
4. Extreme caution will be exercised when handling and or storing chemicals (fuel,
hydraulic fluid, etc.) near waterways; all applicable laws/regulations and best
management practices will be abided by.
5. Spill kits will be kept onsite and all hazardous spills will be cleaned up and reported
immediately.
6. Waterways and storm drains will be protected with silt fence, fiber rolls, erosion control
blankets, and other Storm Water Best Management Practices as necessary along work
area boundaries prior to initiating activity and will be maintained through the duration of
Project activities. No fill, including vegetation trimmings, debris, or runoff will be
allowed to enter wetland areas or waterways.
7. Erosion control materials shall be installed per manufacturing material specifications and
must not contain monofilament netting.
8. If turbidity is observed in Bucks Lake adjacent to the work area, work will stop until the
water clears. The water quality specialist will be notified for each such occurrence, and
work shall not resume until authorized by them.
9. If sheen is observed in Bucks Lake adjacent to the work area work will stop and boom
material will be placed to contain and clean up the sheen. The Environmental Field
Specialist will be notified for each such occurrence, and work shall not resume until
authorized by them.
10. When accessing work sites, limit travel and parking of vehicles and equipment to
pavement, existing roads, and previously disturbed areas (except where overland travel is
required).
11. Ground disturbance and vegetation removal should not exceed the minimum amount
necessary to complete work at the site.
12. If a plant or animal is found at the work site and is believed to be a protected species,
work shall stop in that area and the Project biologist Larry Wise (925-785-8831,
Lawrence.Wise@pge.com) will be contacted for guidance. Care shall be taken not to
harm the plant or animal species.
13. No wildlife species shall be handled and/or removed from the site by anyone except
qualified biologists.
14. Wildlife found in work areas shall be allowed to move out of the area on their own. If the
animal does not move out of the area on its own, the Project biologist will be contacted
for further direction.
15. To avoid crushing wildlife, construction personnel will look under all vehicles and
equipment prior to moving them.
16. Cover or install escape ramps if open trenches or holes are left open overnight. Inspect
Ms. Kimberly Bose, Secretary4
open trenches or holes every morning prior to work for trapped wildlife. If any wildlife
is found, the Project biologist will be notified immediately.
17. Following the completion of the Project, all construction materials, spoils, or other debris
should be removed from the project site.
18. Work areas will be returned to preexisting contours and conditions upon completion of
work.
Sierra Nevada Yellow-legged Frog Conservation Measures:
1. Prior to the start of work, preconstruction surveys shall be conducted within the Project area.
Surveys shall encompass all suitable habitat within 300 feet of these areas. Two surveys
shall be conducted: the first in the late spring/early summer after snow melt, which shall
include visual encounter surveys and eDNA sampling (occurred on June 9, 2021). The
second shall be conducted within 24 hoursof the start of work and will include a visual
encounter survey in the Project areas. These surveys shall be conducted by a qualified
biologist as specified in the previous Biological Opinion. USFWS-accepted decontamination
protocols will be followed during all surveys.
2. In-water work will not be conducted during the Limited Operating Period for the frog, which
extends from November 1 to April 15.
3. Annual Employee Training for staff (employees and contractors) will include a description of
the frog and their habitat, as well as protection measures outlined in the Plan.
4. All heavy equipment, vehicles, and activities will be confined to existing access roads, road
shoulders, staging areas, and disturbed or designated parking and work areas where
conditions allow. Equipment, when not in use, will be stored in upland areas away from all
waterbodies.
5. The Licensees may be required to periodically travel off-road to retrieve/remove cut hazard
trees and other vegetation from areas lacking roads (e.g., campgrounds) for public/facility
safety or for other Project activities. Access to/from work areas will follow the safest route
with the least potential for resource damage.
6. If work is required in off-road areas in suitable habitat, a qualified biologist will clearthe
work area before work proceeds.
7. Vehicles and equipment will not be maintained or refueled in areas where hazardous
materials may enter a stream or lake (minimum of 107 feetfrom waterways). All equipment
will be well maintained to prevent leaks of fuels, lubricants, or otherfluids. All equipment
and the ground underneath such equipment will be inspected prior to be being brought on
site, and daily while on site for evidence of leaks. Any leaking equipment will be removed
from the site immediately and repaired before being allowed to return to any of the
Licensees’ work sites.
8. Extreme caution will be used and all applicable laws and regulations will be followed when
handling and/or storing chemicals (e.g., fuel, hydraulic fluid, pesticides, etc.). Chemicals
should not be stored near waterways, except within existing Project buildings designated for
such storage. Mixing of chemicals should be done no closer than 300 feet from suitable frog
aquatic habitat. All applicable hazardous waste best management practices will be followed.
Appropriate materials will be on site to prevent and manage spills.
9. When possible, activities near wetlands, waterways, or on saturated soils will be conducted
during the dry season. If work is necessary during the rainy season, it should be conducted
Ms. Kimberly Bose, Secretary5
during dry spells between rain events.
10. Vegetation removal and ground disturbance will not exceed the minimum amount necessary
to complete work.
11. Spoil sites will not be located within any waterbodies or aquatic habitat (including meadows)
where spoils may be washed back into any waterbodies or aquatic habitat or where it may
cover aquatic or riparian vegetation.
12. Vegetation trimmings, debris, fill, litter, or other materials that may be deleterious toaquatic
life will not be placed within 300 feet of suitable habitat for the frog. All trash and waste
items generated by Project or personnel activities will be properly contained and removed
from the Project area at the end of each workday to prevent attracting wildlife to thearea.
13. If a frog is encountered, the general procedure is to leave the animal alone. If a frog is
encountered in an active Project area, the first priority is to stop all activities in the
surrounding area that may have the potential to result in take (e.g., harassment, injury, or
death) of the individual. A photograph will be taken (without handling the frog), and shared
with the biologist. If the biologist determines that it is a Sierra Nevada yellow-legged frog, it
will be permitted to leave the project area on its own. If it does not leave, work will be
delayed until the frog leaves the area. Work will not resume until the situation has been
resolved to the biologist’s satisfaction. The Licensees will contact the Bay-Delta Fish and
Wildlife Office, U.S.D.A. Forest Service, and California Department of Fish and Wildlife
within 48 hours. The sighting location will be documented with GPS and reported to the
California Natural Diversity Database.
14. Before moving vehicles and heavy equipment, Project personnel will check for amphibians
and other wildlife to ensure they are not crushed.
15. The Licensees will use erosion control materials composed entirely of natural-fiber
biodegradable materials within 107 feet of frog suitable habitat. Geotextiles, fiber rolls, and
other erosion control measures shall be made of loose-weave mesh, such as jute, coconut
(coir) fiber, or other products without welded weaves. Synthetic (e.g., plastic or nylon)
mono-filament netting will not be used for erosion control or other purposes within 107 feet
of frog suitable habitat to ensure that individuals do not get entangled, trapped, injured, or
killed.
Given the above mentioned conservation measures, and since no frogs have been detected in the
Haskins Valley area since 1991 (even though surveys have occurred in several intervening
years), the USFWS concurs with the Commission/Licensees’ determination that the proposed
Project may affect, but is not likely to adversely affect the frog. This conclusion is based on: (1)
the absence of detections in the area over multiple decades; (2)low suitability of habitat within
Bucks Lake (due to the presence of fish in the lake known to feed on frog eggs and tadpoles); (3)
any impacts to habitat are anticipated to be minor, localized and temporary; (4) preconstruction
surveys will occur; and (5) the proposed conservation measures would appropriately reduce any
remaining likelihood of impacts to the frog.
REINITIATION – CLOSING STATEMENT
This concludes consultation for Haskins Valley Boat Ramp Replacement Project. As provided in
50 CFR § 402.16,
Ms. Kimberly Bose, Secretary6
(a) Reinitiation of consultation is required and shall be requested by the Federal agency or by the
USFWS, where discretionary Federal involvement or control over the action has been retained or
is authorized by law and:
(1) If the amount or extent of taking specified in the incidental take statement is exceeded;
(2) If new information reveals effects of the action that may affect listed species or critical
habitat in a manner or to an extent not previously considered;
(3) If the identified action is subsequently modified in a manner that causes an effect to the
listed species or critical habitat that was not considered in the biological opinion or written
concurrence; or
(4) If a new species is listed or critical habitat designated that may be affected by the
identified action.
(b) An agency shall not be required to reinitiate consultation after the approval of a land
management plan prepared pursuant to 43 U.S.C. 1712 or 16 U.S.C. 1604 upon listing of a new
species or designation of new critical habitat if the land management plan has been adopted by
the agency as of the date of listing or designation, provided that any authorized actions that may
affect the newly listed species or designated critical habitatwill be addressed through a separate
action-specific consultation. This exception to reinitiation of consultation shall not apply to
those land management plans prepared pursuant to 16 U.S.C. 1604 if:
(1) Fifteen years have passed since the date the agency adopted the land management plan
prepared pursuant to 16 U.S.C. 1604; and
(2) Five years have passed since the enactment of Public Law 115-141 \[March 23, 2018\] or
the date of the listing of a species or the designation of critical habitat, whichever is later.
Please address any question or concern regarding this response by contacting A. Leigh Bartoo,
Fish and Wildlife Biologist by email atAondrea_bartoo@fws.gov.
Sincerely,
Daniel Welsh
DeputyField Supervisor
Ms. Kimberly Bose, Secretary7
Electronic Copy Furnished:
CDFW—Michael Maher
Forest Service—Amy Lind
SWRCB—Amber Villalobos
PG&E—Larry Wise
City of Santa Clara—Steve Hance
Plumas County—Tracey Ferguson