Initial activities will involve posting warning signs for public protection, improving access roads to the work site to comply with California Department of Forestry fire protection standards, and establishing office and storage yard areas.

Surveying work will get under way and earth-moving activities will begin in the dry river channel during the month of October. Those who use Auburn Dam Project roads for activities such as hiking, horseback and bike riding can expect to begin to see signs and barricades restricting their usage of the roads and warning them to expect construction equipment on the roads.

The Project's primary purpose is to restore year-round access to Placer County Water Agency's water rights, which were lost during the initial Auburn Dam construction activities in the early 1970s. The Project includes building the pump station, pipelines, roads, and reconstructing a channel in the dry portion of the American River. Work will be completed in 2005.

Nearby residents can expect sporadic increased truck traffic as the Project gets under way. Project neighbors can call 800-742-9474 and press "25" to get information or leave a voice message concerning the Project. All voice messages will be returned promptly.

For additional information, please call David Jones in Reclamation's Public Affairs Office at 916-978-5108, TDD 916-978-5608.