Reclamation To Begin Maintenance Activities On The Bypass Canal

Reclamation announced recently that repairs to the U.S. Bypass Drain, which carries irrigation drainage water from farming operations in the Wellton and South Gila valleys to the Yuma Desalting Plant and on to the Ciénega de Santa Clara, will begin on September 5.

Targeted as a high-priority project for completion this year, Reclamation has hired a contractor to begin work along the Bypass Canal in the United States. Work will include the removal of existing sediment and debris inside the canal, replacement of damaged concrete panels, patching of headwalls and replacement of damaged safety ladders.

This work has been coordinated with Mexico through the International Boundary and Water Commission, United States and Mexico, and will include monitoring of water flows, wildlife and vegetation in both countries.

During construction, Reclamation will temporarily divert canal flows around the construction site into the Limitrophe below Morelos Dam at the Main Outlet Drain Extension (MODE) 3 diversion structure for a period of approximately 120 days (through the end of 2019). The public is encouraged to avoid construction areas to ensure safety. The water to be discharged is composed entirely of return flows from irrigated agriculture. Therefore, the water is not potable. The public should not drink the water, nor should it be used for swimming. Signs to alert the public to avoid contact with the irrigation return flows for the remainder of 2019 will be installed along the Colorado River.

About Bureau of Reclamation
Reclamation is the largest wholesale water supplier in the United States, and the nation's second largest producer of hydroelectric power. Its facilities also provide substantial flood control, recreation, and fish and wildlife benefits. For more information, visit https://www.usbr.gov.