State Water Board Records Describe River-Temperature Alternatives Around Caribou Powerhouses

CARIBOU, Plumas County — Water temperature and fish habitat are major questions in the North Fork Feather River watershed around Caribou, where dams and powerhouses change how water travels through the canyon.

Environmental review materials maintained by the State Water Resources Control Board examine potential ways to manage cold-water habitat and water temperatures, including modifications to reservoir releases, changes to Caribou No. 2 operations and improvements to riparian vegetation. The technical documents reflect alternatives considered during water-quality and relicensing processes.

A planning or environmental alternative is not necessarily an approved operating change. Public discussions about temperature-control technology should not be reported as construction already underway at the Caribou plants. Specific conditions are governed by license provisions, agency certifications and later orders.

What residents and visitors should know

People concerned about flows, river conditions or habitat can consult the board’s Upper North Fork project record and available monitoring material. Recreational visitors should also be aware that hydropower operations can affect water conditions; never assume a river reach will remain unchanged throughout the day.

Primary source: California or Plumas County official information.

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