Rock barrier to close part of River

Rock barrier work to close north channel of McKenzie River

Eugene Water & Electric Board crews will begin work tomorrow, July 21st, to repair four of the chevrons in the north channel of the McKenzie River, immediately downstream of the Walterville Power Canal diversion.

The work will require the use of a large truck and excavator in the north channel. The excavator will be placing boulders measuring between 1 foot and 5 feet in diameter in order to repair the chevrons.

Work on the project will run from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 21st through July 24th, and from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Aug. 3rd through Aug. 7th.

During the repair project, boaters should use the river’s south (main) channel at Kaldor Island (go left at the island). The Walterville Boat Landing at the canal diversion will be closed to boaters trying to put in. Boat take-outs will be allowed at this location.

EWEB installed the first three chevrons – which act as rock barriers that direct more water volume into the Walterville Power Canal – in 2002. Three additional structures were built in 2006.

Image is from construction upgrades of the chevrons in July of 2006.