Supporting Salmon and Steelhead Migration
Under the Central Valley Project Improvement Act, the Secretary of the Interior must ensure adequate water flows for the lifecycle needs of salmon and steelhead downstream of the Whiskeytown Dam. To meet this mandate, the Bureau of Reclamation (BOR) was named co-lead and partnered with industry experts to improve conditions for migrating fish with a temperature curtain barrier.
A Tailored Solution from PNP
In response to a BOR request, PNP designed, built, and installed a custom temperature curtain. The 800-foot by 42-foot barrier was fabricated from durable five-ply, 60 mil CSPE Hypalon. It features a 30-inch diameter steel frame gate, allowing boat passage while maintaining water control. PNP delivered the curtain in two large sections, minimizing on-site assembly and installation time.
How the Curtain Works
This flexible barrier prevents warm surface water from flowing downstream. Instead, it redirects cooler, deeper water into the outflow. Cooler water temperatures are vital for young salmon and steelhead, especially during migration. As a result, this design helps BOR meet its environmental goals and comply with federal fish passage requirements.
Delivered On Time, Built to Last
PNP completed the project on schedule and met all critical deadlines. This cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution not only improves habitat conditions but also supports BOR’s mission to protect aquatic ecosystems long term.
KEY FEATURES
- 30” x 20 ft foam-filled steel floats
- 48” steel anchor buoys
- 5-ply 60 mil CSPE Hypalon fabric curtain
- 30” diameter steel frame boat passage gate
- Weights, chain, and all rigging components
- Shore anchors with clump weights on near shore curtain sections
- Deployed for year-round use
- Anticipated lifespan of 8-10 years
- On-time completion
- Met critical deadlines
