With water flows set to increase on the Rock Creek Reach of the North Fork Feather River, Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) is urging you to exercise caution during whitewater recreation activities in the area.
The section of the river affected by the higher flows, scheduled for the weekend of July 15-16, features challenging Class III, IV, and V rapids that require advanced paddling skills. Tubing is not recommended due to the nature of the rapids.
Known as the Rock Creek Reach, this 8.3-mile stretch of the North Fork Feather River is situated within the Plumas National Forest, extending from PG&E’s Rock Creek Dam to the Rock Creek Powerhouse near Storrie.
Starting at 9 a.m. on Saturday, July 15, water flows will be increased to 1,100 cubic feet-per-second (cfs). On Sunday, the flows will be maintained at 900 cfs until 2 p.m., after which they will gradually return to the seasonal norm of approximately 440 cfs.
Boaters should be aware that ongoing construction work along Highway 70 may impact access to certain areas. While boaters can still launch at Rock Creek Bench and disembark across from Rock Crest Camp near Storrie, parking and access to Rock Creek Powerhouse and the Rock Creek Inlet will be restricted. Alternatively, boaters can navigate downstream to the Cresta Reach, where flows are around 1,400 cfs, and utilize the Cresta Powerhouse for disembarkation.
These recreational flows are conducted in collaboration with the American Whitewater organization and the Rock Creek–Cresta Ecological Resource Committee. Typically, such flows are scheduled for four weekends each year in June, July, August, and September. However, last month’s recreational flows were canceled due to the temporary closure of Highway 70.
Additional recreational flows are planned for the weekends of August 26-27 and September 23-24.
To ensure your safety, PG&E offers the following water safety tips:
Avoid cold water: Sudden immersion in cold water can lead to involuntary inhalation, which may cause cardiac arrest, temporary paralysis, hypothermia, and drowning. Even strong swimmers should exercise caution in swift water.
Beware of hidden obstacles: Numerous submerged obstacles can pose a threat in swift water. Inexperienced paddlers are strongly advised to join guided trips for their safety.
Prohibition in canals and flumes: Recreational activities in PG&E canals and flumes are strictly prohibited due to their inherent dangers, such as slippery sides, submerged obstacles, fast-moving water, and transitions into tunnels and pipes. Visit www.pge.com/hydrosafety for more water safety tips.
As the water flows increase, it is crucial if you plan to engage in whitewater recreation on the Rock Creek Reach to follow these safety recommendations provided by PG&E. By prioritizing safety, you can enjoy your time on the river while minimizing risks and preventing accidents.
