Russian River Dam Failure Prompts Closure Of Seasonal Bridge

SONOMA COUNTY, CA — The Sonoma County Public Infrastructure Department has closed the summer crossing of the Russian River at Vacation Beach in Guerneville after a section of a seasonal dam failed, causing abnormally high river flows and damaging a county road. The area is currently closed and should be avoided, the county said Friday.

The dam, operated by the Russian River Recreation and Parks District, experienced a breach Thursday night due to a component failure. There were no unscheduled releases and no increase in river flow upstream before the dam failure.

The dam creates a popular seasonal recreation spot along the Russian River, and the crossing is typically open through September.

"It is unfortunate that we have to close the Vacation Beach summer crossing early," said Supervisor Lynda Hopkins, who represents the Russian River area. "But safety is our most important priority, especially ahead of the busy Labor Day weekend."

The Russian River Recreation and Parks District had a crane at the site Friday to remove some of the dam’s boards and release pressure, which may cause higher flows and swifter water downstream. Residents should check their floating docks upstream and remove them if possible, the county said.

The dam will remain in place for Labor Day weekend but will be removed shortly thereafter. The boat ramp remains open for boaters.

"Russian River Recreation and Parks District staff have been working diligently to address the situation as soon as it was brought to their attention," said Esa Day, president of the district board. "We appreciate the cooperation of the various agencies working together to make the area as safe as possible."