A burst penstock at the New Colgate Powerhouse led to a spill of oil and debris into the Yuba River, prompting a coordinated emergency response to contain environmental damage and protect local waterways. The incident took place just south of Dobbins at the Yuba Water Agency’s main hydroelectric facility on Friday. According to the agency, the penstock—a large, high-pressure pipe carrying water from New Bullards Bar Dam to the powerhouse—ruptured just before 3 p.m. while workers were testing a new protective valve. The pipe is 14 feet in diameter and extends nearly five miles.
After the pipe burst, oil and debris made their way into the river and were later seen near Englebright Lake, as announced by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Containment efforts began soon after, with response crews deploying a containment boom across the river and hiring a cleanup contractor. Investigators say they are still working to determine the exact type and amount of oil that spilled into the water. Water quality testing by the Yuba Water Agency is ongoing.
As of the latest reports, assessment crews from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Office of Spill Prevention and Response have not observed any directly affected or visibly oiled wildlife. However, authorities are urging the public to avoid the area between the powerhouse and Englebright Lake to allow crews to complete their work safely. One worker involved in the repairs was rescued by helicopter and hospitalized, but all other personnel were reported safe.
Yuba Water Agency officials stress that their main focus remains on securing the site, minimizing environmental impacts, and removing debris—including both manmade and natural materials—from affected areas. Efforts also include studying the effects of altered water flows on local aquatic species, with ongoing coordination between local and state agencies. Updated LiDAR surveys are being completed around the powerhouse to help understand the extent of the damage.
Willie Whittlesey, general manager of Yuba Water Agency, emphasized that river protection is a top priority and said that the agency is dedicated to both immediate cleanup and long-term restoration. Officials noted that while this event poses new challenges, they are working closely with environmental agencies to address all consequences and to keep the public informed as the response continues.
Read More