Part of the Infrastructure Master Plan
Bohannon Dam Modernization Project
Background: Originally constructed more than 75 years ago, the existing Bohannon Dam structure had reached the end of its useful life. The facility could not be retrofitted with modern gates, and the overall structure was beginning to fail and required staff time to manually operate gates in all weather and flood events. With funding support from the Bureau of Reclamation and Sutter Mutual Water Company, a full replacement was determined to be the best path forward.
The Upgrades: The new dam includes a new Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) integration and Rubicon gates, allowing operators to remotely monitor conditions and adjust flows without the need for manual board removal. The upgraded structure also improves physical access to the gates and across the canal, increases conveyance capacity, and provides the ability to back water up to relieve pressure on Karnak when necessary—enhancing both operational flexibility and system reliability.
Improving Efficiency
Precise downstream level control.
Improved communications to site.
Improved operations.
Funding for the project was provided through a United States Bureau of Reclamation WaterSMART Grant with a local cost share provided by SMWC.
Project Technical Details
The Bohannon Dam Modernization Project involved several key technical upgrades to enhance the precision, automation, and reliability of the pumping plants:
New Pipes and Control Gates: The installation of six new 60-inch pipes increases flow capacity through the dam and is regulated by new Rubicon SlipGates for precise control. In addition, two 48-inch manually operated gates provide rapid response capability during emergency flood events.
Vega Non-Contact Sensor: Mounted above the water surface, a down-looking sensor from VEGA Grieshaber KG measures the distance to the water to determine precise level readings. Because it is non-contact, it is not affected by debris, sediment, or fouling. The sensor delivers reliable accuracy under variable flow conditions, requires minimal maintenance, and integrates easily into remote or automated monitoring systems.
Remote Terminal Unit (RTU): New which is integrated into the central Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system.
Communications: The central office Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) servers were updated to include improved control and monitoring at Bohannon Dam.
Reporting & Documentation: SCADA servers were programmed with new alarms to support improved site controls and monitoring.
