MultiFunction Boom for Fish Passage and Debris Control in Clackamas River, Portland

Jul 30, 2025 | Case Studies, Debris and Environmental Management, HDPE

Portland General Electric Clackamas River MultiFunction Boom

Article Details

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MULTIFUNCTION DEBRIS BOOM WITH A BOAT GATE

Pacific Netting Products (PNP) continues to lead in waterway protection with its innovative solutions for fish passage and debris control. A recent project with Portland General Electric (PGE) showcases two of PNP’s advanced systems: the Guide Net System and the MultiFunction Debris Boom with Boat Gate.

Engineered for Fish Passage Efficiency

At the center of the project is a 2.5-million-pound Floating Surface Collector (FSC), designed to safely guide migrating fish downstream. PNP’s custom-designed guide nets flank the FSC, directing fish toward the collector with precision. The net’s upper section features a unique, non-permeable XR5 fabric barrier. Backed by Dyneema® webbing, the barrier uses natural water flow for support—delivering performance and durability under tough hydraulic conditions.

Advanced Debris Control with Lower Maintenance

To handle debris, PNP installed its patented HDPE MultiFunction Boom. This system dramatically reduces debris at the intake and cuts maintenance costs. The boom includes a 4-foot-deep, nylon-reinforced skirt that channels floating debris to shore. An integrated 20-foot-wide boat gate allows vessels to pass through with ease.

Since installation, debris buildup at the dam’s trash racks has been virtually eliminated—proving PNP’s system highly effective and efficient.

Built for Performance, Designed for Longevity

Every product PNP delivers is engineered for long-term value. The materials used—such as Dyneema® netting, galvanized hardware, and heavy-duty fabrics—are chosen for their strength, durability, and resistance to extreme environments. Custom fabrication ensures a perfect fit for each site, while modular components allow for easier installation, inspection, and repair. The result: reliable performance with a lower total cost of ownership over time.

KEY FEATURES
Guide Net

  • 500 ft long x 75 ft deep
  • 1/4” knotless Dyneema
  • In-line boat passage gate operates with
  • loads up to 7 kip
  • Custom design to allow for drafting and
  • servicing of the FSC
  • 20 ft raise/lower of FSC for service
  • Dam, shore, and in-lake anchors
  • Deployed year-round
  • Anticipated lifespan: 10 years
  • Float system with 18” x 24” hard shell foam-filled
  • PE floats on 1” stainless cable

MultiFunction Boom

  • 1,400 ft long, built in 50 ft section
  • 3/4” galvanized bolts
  • 20 ft wide boat gate
  • Splash guard removes small debris to allow FSC to operate efficiently
  • 4 ft deep debris skirt guides debris to shore for easy removal
  • 50-year life span
  • Design load is 75 kip with a 2:1 safety factor
  • Lowest cost of ownership

location: CLACKAMAS RIVER, OREGON
application: Debris and Environmental Management

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