Qualifications Pacific Northwest January 2021
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We Provide Practical Solutions for Renewable Energy, Water and Environmental Projects! We are excited to announce that R2 Resource Consultants has joined Kleinschmidt. With principal offices in Redmond and Vancouver, Washington, R2 has established an industryleading reputation for services in fisheries and aquatic science, fish passage and hatchery facilities, ecology, and water resource engineering services across the Pacific Northwest region. Both firms have similar approaches to company and project management that will allow us to provide the excellent services you have come
to expect, now with expanded capabilities. By combining Kleinschmidt technical expertise in hydropower, water resource engineering, FERC licensing, fish passage & protection, hydrology and hydraulics with R2’s expertise in fisheries biology, aquatic, wetland & riparian ecology, hydraulics and sediment transport modeling, watershed and instream flow analysis (just to name a few), we have enhanced our ability to provide practical solutions to your renewable energy, water and environmental projects!
Who We Work For POWER UTILITIES
INDEPENDENT POWER AND ENERGY DEVELOPERS
GOVERNMENT AND NGO’S
WATER UTILITIES
Kleinschmidt | R2 provides engineering, regulatory and environmental services for North American energy companies and governmental agencies who endeavor to protect and enhance the natural environment, without compromising performance.
What We Do
HYDROPOWER ENGINEERING
DAM SAFETY AND WATER INFRASTRUCTURE ENGINEERING
FISH PASSAGE AND PROTECTION
LICENSING AND PERMITTING
WATER RESOURCE ENGINEERING AND HABITAT RESTORATION
ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES
MODELING & GIS
We excel in working at the intersection of regulatory requirements, environmental science, and engineering solutions. Kleinschmidt | R2 staffs each project with experienced and knowledgeable personnel to meet the challenges of each project. Our reputation for providing practical solutions to complex problems affecting energy, water and the environment is founded on 50+ years of experience and our ability to analyze, prepare, and present project information in a logical, thorough, and technically sound manner.
Client Listening Program Loyal relationships with our clients, teaming partners, and employees is one of our Core Values and has been part of our foundation since Steve Kleinschmidt founded us in 1966. Our success over the years has come from taking the time to listen intently and identify our client’s underlying needs so we continue to provide value throughout the life cycle of your project. “Always proactive! Keep things on track and on schedule. Very easy to work with. All of the Kleinschmidt team goes 100% to make sure we are getting things done.”
— Columbia Basin Hydropower
“Just how to do this audit was an unknown. Very little guidance from FERC. But Kleinschmidt came through once again and provided a great product at a reasonable price. Good job!”
— Entergy Services, Inc.
Safety Kleinschmidt | R2 has a formal safety program which includes a corporate safety officer, safety committee, and safety procedures to ensure safe and healthful conditions for all employees at the office and on the jobsite. All members of the Kleinschmidt | R2 team are required to follow appropriate components of the program and receive annual job-specific training as part of Kleinschmidt | R2’s own Safety Week.
Philanthropy Kleinschmidt sets aside a percentage of revenue each year for philanthropy with a focus on endowing our Kleinschmidt Fund. These funds support employee efforts to assist numerous organizations throughout North America. We promote STEM initiatives at junior high and high schools such as the Kleinschmidt Windstorm Challenge at the University of Maine, and several robotics and science programs. We also assist many other organizations in our communities through meaningful partnerships and employee volunteerism. We are thankful to our clients and partners, and to our socially conscious employees for enabling us to give back to the communities where we work, live and play.
Hydropower Engineering Hydropower is the oldest and largest source of renewable power generation. We have served this market for more than 50 years, working on hundreds of hydropower facilities from existing hydropower rehabilitations and modernizations, to building new facilities. We build trust with our clients by working effectively to solve problems in a manner that reduces costs and increases revenues. Our reputation for quality is founded on our ability to analyze, prepare, and present project information that is comprehensive and detailed, and concise to withstand the scrutiny of technical, regulatory, and legal review. We staff each project with experienced, knowledgeable professionals who average more than 22 years of hydropower experience. The core project team remains assigned for the duration of the project.
Feasibility & Planning Our experience includes performing hydropower feasibility assessments for the upgrade potential of existing sites, development potential of new greenfield sites, and performing due diligence assessments at existing hydropower facilities nationwide.
Asset Modernization & New Facility Engineering Whether the project involves developing a new “greenfield� hydropower plant, adding generation to an existing non-powered dam, or rehabilitating an existing hydropower facility, hydropower engineers need a comprehensive understanding of the inter-relationship of all the project components. Our team has diverse backgrounds in civil, structural, hydraulic, mechanical, electrical, and geotechnical disciplines, which allow us to identify, evaluate, and develop comprehensive and integrated solutions.
Penstock Inspections & Design We routinely perform penstock inspections and evaluations to assess the condition of existing penstocks. Several staff members hold Level I certification with the Society of Professional Rope Access Technicians (SPRAT) and have the experience to perform penstock and hydraulic structure inspections using industrial rope access techniques. Our experienced inspection staff complete annual confined space training for entry into penstocks.
Hydropower Engineering
Personalized Service for Every Project Need Valuations & Due Diligence
Construction Services
Technical consultants are often required to evaluate a project or an asset portfolio. Our team of experienced, senior personnel offer specialized technical services to our clients and the lenders involved in the financing, sale, acquisition and development of hydroelectric and other electric assets. In meeting this need, Kleinschmidt | R2 has served as independent reviewers for lending institutions, private developers, utilities, and law firms.
To confirm that a construction project is built according to the design specifications and to mitigate future liability, most owners require construction monitoring or inspection services to be performed by an owner’s engineer – someone whose primary responsibility is to consider the owner’s interests. These services may be limited to reviewing shop drawings, answering contractor questions during construction and occasional site visits; or for larger complex projects they may require full-time on-site engineering teams. We have experience with both scenarios and can provide the necessary hydro engineering construction services required to verify the quality, accuracy, and progress of the project.
Mechanical Services Kleinschmidt | R2’s mechanical services specialize in solving a full spectrum of hydroelectric industry challenges from detailed machine component design, to balance of plant system design, construction support, and a variety of ancillary services. Our team of mechanical engineers are practically driven innovators who can tackle most hydromechanical tasks ranging from designing a remote off-grid gate/actuator installation to developing a three-dimensionally rendered pumped storage feasibility study. We emphasize practicality in our solutions which is why we have engineers with handson welding training, on-site alignment experience, and who have dealt with the pressures of startup, testing, and commissioning power plant systems while fluidly coordinating contractor, manufacturer, and operations’ demands. We have extensive experience with hydro machinery and systems, which helps us identify cost-effective standard solutions or we can tap our in-house design expertise to customize a solution. We also design new or replacement balance of plant systems from a reliability and maintenance friendly perspective, while developing the equipment procurement and contractor installation and testing specifications for
these systems based on our construction experience rather than just using boiler plate forms. This results
in fair, concise, and thorough approaches to solving complex challenges for our clients.
We can assist plant owners and operators by developing and supporting inspection regimens, completing various diagnostics and condition assessments, and compiling equipment information management databases. We employ our field experience in providing construction monitoring and quality assurance services on projects of all sizes, and routinely save client’s time and money through early identification of quality and alignment issues. We work closely with and are located near some of the most prominent hydro equipment manufactures in North America which affords us unique combination of a sterling reputation of successful collaboration with manufacturers, cost-effective quality shopinspection services, and independent in-house design expertise. We can also assist clients who have a limited operations and maintenance staff by developing operations and maintenance documents, procedures, and protocols.
Full list of capabilities • Machine & Component Design • • • • • •
Trashrakes & Debris Handling Equipment Turbine Generator Brakes Wicket Gate Replacements Wicket Gate Operating Mechanisms Hydraulic Control Gates & Actuators Fish Passage Crowders & Sorters
• Balance of Plant Design • • • • • •
Cooling Water & Filtration Systems Ventilation Systems Compressed Air Systems Dewatering Systems Material Handling Systems Fish Passage Systems
• Construction Support & Field Services
• Quality Assurance Manufacturing Inspections • Construction & Alignment Monitoring • Startup & Commissioning planning & execution • Turbine Index and absolute testing • As-found/built documentation
• Ancillary Services • • • • •
Condition Assessments Feasibility studies Valuations Due Diligence O&M Protocol & Document Development
In the past 5 years, we have completed more than
90 15 35 200+ 30
hydro facility
equipment condition assessments
turbine upgrades penstock inspections/ replacements dam inspections and
gate inspections
Electrical Services Kleinschmidt | R2’s electrical services are focused on serving the hydroelectric industry. Despite this dedicated focus, Our team of electrical engineers are generalists who can tackle most any electrical engineering task in and around a hydroelectric powerstation ranging from a station service shortcircuit current analysis to a complete powerstation design, including construction and commissioning assistance. Electrical drawings live on long after the concrete is cured as troubleshooting tools, and our electrical engineers pride themselves on pulling threads in existing drawing packages to make sure that crossreferences get updated and demolished equipment and cables are removed from drawings, while integrating new drawings into the existing package in a thoughtful way. Our electrical engineers design electrical systems and specify equipment including switchgear, motor control centers, protective relays, synchronizing equipment, transformers, generators, and various custom control panels. Our team models and analyzes
medium and low voltage power systems, conducting short-circuit, coordination, and arc-flash studies. They evaluate opportunities and needs for equipment upgrades by analyzing electrical test data, evaluating adequacy of switchgear and transformers for existing and future generation and loads, evaluate existing protective relaying, and providing recommendations for maintenance and equipment upgrades. They provide support during construction; reviewing contractor submittals and RFI’s. Not only do we design custom control panels, but we have also developed PLC programs and HMI screens for turbine-generator controls, fish lifts, and plant auxiliary systems and spent time in the field commissioning them. We also design and specify protective relays and associated instrumentation and controls, and have developed relay setting configuration files, configured the relays in the field, and worked with qualified testing firms to test the settings.
Full list of capabilities • Design • Turbine-generator, bus, and transformer electrical protection • Station service and facility power systems • Critical/backup power systems • Lighting, fire, & security systems • Turbine-generator unit control systems • Instrumentation & control retrofits & replacements • Balance of plant control systems • Fish Passage and water conveyance control systems
“Always proactive! Keep things on track and on schedule. Very easy to work with. All of the Kleinschmidt team goes 100% to make sure we are getting things done.” - Columbia Basin Hydropower
• Analysis • Short-circuit • Coordination • Power Flow • Arc-flash incident energy
• Construction Support & Field Services • PLC programming, testing, & troubleshooting • HMI screen development, testing, & troubleshooting • Electrical protection setting & configuration • Exciter setting & configuration • Commissioning assistance, technical leadership, and quality control & assurance • As-found/built documentation
• Ancillary Services • • • • •
Condition Assessments Feasibility studies Valuations Due Diligence O&M Protocol & Document Development
“Project Manager was easy to work with and communicated well. He is very representative of our overall experience with Kleinschmidt. He is technically proficient AND a practical engineer, the best combination.” - Confidential Client, Georgia
“The staff provided by Kleinschmidt stepped into a field lead role and communicated well, worked hard, and provided solid leadership to junior staff. That is all anyone can hope for from their own staff, let alone a subcontractor.” - Confidential Client, Maine
Dam Safety & Infrastructure Engineering We Know Dams Our dam engineers provide studies, inspections, and designs to meet the needs of today’s dam owners. We work with our clients to determine the most cost-effective means to help owners ensure the safety of their dams. Our extensive experience in identifying, studying, and preparing solutions to complex dam issues can provide you with peace of mind that your project is in the best hands.
Water Control/Dam Levee Inspection & Design Our dam engineers provide inspections, studies, and designs to meet the needs of today’s dam owners. Over the lifecycle of a project, solutions can involve determining the reasons for equipment inefficiency or failure, addressing safety issues, optimizing water usage for increased generation, modernization of existing civil structures, and meeting regulatory requirements such as permitting and Part 12 dam safety obligations, including delivery of emergency action plans and functional exercise services.
Spillway/Gate Inspection & Design Safety concerns and economic risks of aging water control gates are common problems for many older dams. While the rehabilitation of existing gates share many technical aspects with new gate construction, it also presents special considerations and unique challenges. We provide our clients with comprehensive inspections, analysis, and design to assist with any gate/intake issues.
Dam Safety Inspections & Monitoring We routinely perform structural assessments and dam safety inspections to meet the owners’ internal audit requirements and federal, state, and provincial regulations. Our independent consultants have conducted hundreds of the highly regulated Federal Energy Regulatory
Commission (FERC) Part 12 inspections, which require periodic evaluation of all water-retaining project facilities in the United States that may affect public safety if they were to fail (such as spillways, gates and foundations). For Canadian owners, we have conducted dam safety reviews in accordance with the Canadian Dam Association guidelines.
Hydrologic & Hydraulic (H&H) Modeling Our hydrologic engineering experience includes developing new site-specific probable maximum flood (PMF) values and analyzing existing PMF conditions for dozens of projects throughout North America. We routinely revise flood frequency estimates for sites and apply hypothetical rainfall distributions in our hydrologic models. Our hydraulic engineers regularly perform hydraulic modeling and dam breach analyses to determine Inflow Design Flood (IDF) levels and hazard classifications. Our staff has completed hundreds of emergency action plans, dam breach studies, and inundation mapping projects. By combining hydrologic models and hydraulic modeling, we help clients understand how the amount of runoff that enters rivers impacts their specific site locations. The results of the combined hydrologic and hydraulic models allow engineers to relay how the changes could impact operating procedures, generation capacity, or compliance adherence. Our Hydrologic Engineering Center (HEC) utlilizes software programs such as HEC-HMS, HEC-RAS, HEC-ResSim, HECSSP, HEC-DSSVue, and our proprietary software McBreach.
Dam Safety & Infrastructure Engineering
Emergency Action Plans & Dam Breach Analysis
Extreme weather conditions and rain events can wreak havoc on dams and be a major cause of concern for local communities. Let us help you prepare. Our highly trained team of hydraulic engineers are well versed in understanding the nature of dams, especially during flood conditions. We have completed hundreds of emergency action plans (EAP), dam breach studies, and inundation mapping projects.
Our engineers embrace the risk-informed decision-making process, using a suite of deterministic and probabilistic tools to inform clients of the risks associated with dam failures. We combine geographic information system (GIS) mapping with breach modeling to provide a consistent platform that unifies planning (e.g., building restrictions) and preparing EAP’s.guidelines.
Licensing and Permitting Many of our clients experience frustration due to the complicated, bureaucratic nature of government regulations. Trying to sort through regulatory agency jurisdictions and their requirements, regardless of the project size or complexity, is often characterized as a daunting task. We have been helping companies like yours navigate the regulatory process for more than 30+ years and this is an area where experience matters! Our experience has helped companies save millions of dollars.
Federal/State/Provincial Permitting & Approvals Our staff is well versed in the site plan and submittal requirements for all agencies, allowing us to provide “one stop shopping” for most projects. Inherent in our permitting approach is our role as mediator and negotiator to assure projects meet the client’s purpose and need, while satisfying regulatory requirements. We advocate a proactive, cooperative approach to most permitting projects, involving jurisdictional agencies at the onset of the design and implementation stages.
FERC Licensing We have experience of managing more than 100 projects through the complete Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) relicensing process. We know what is required by FERC and how to keep the licensing process moving – we served for 10 years as part of FERC’s environmental contractor team. Our team identifies any potential resource issues and develops realistic studies based upon a nexus to the project as necessary to acquire data or to develop appropriate protection, mitigation and enhancement measures. By integrating planning, facilitation, biological science, socioeconomic, and licensing skills, we provide a full suite of capabilities necessary for developing a workable relicensing strategy. This experience has proven successful in developing documents that meet FERC’s requirements and expectations, resulting in lower costs for our clients.
NEPA We have extensive experience in preparing environmental assessments and environmental impact statements under the requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act or NEPA for various lead and cooperating federal agencies (e.g., U.S. Forest Service, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, U.S. Department of Energy, National Telecommunication and Information Agency, Federal Highway Administration, and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers), private clients, and project types.
Regulatory Compliance & Reporting We have managed 100+ relicensing projects for hydropower owners throughout North America during the past 30 years and have the knowledge and expertise to assist licensees in meeting complex FERC compliance requirements. We provide different options for compliance management based on the level of assistance needed, the project specific complexities, the size of the project portfolio, and the kind of compliance requirements mandated by FERC and other agencies.
Full list of capabilities • Permitting & Approvals • • • • •
National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) Natural Resource Protection Act Site Law Stormwater Management Shoreland Zoning
• • • • •
FEMA Consultation Land Use Regulatory Commission Army Corps of Engineers Stream Alteration NPDES, Section 404, Section 401, etc.
• FERC Licensing/Relicensing • • • • • • •
Strategic Planning FERC Licensing & Relicensing License Exemptions Preliminary Permits License Amendments Consultation/ Negotiation Dam Removal & Decommissioning
• • • • • •
Agency and Stakeholder Meeting Facilitation Study/Process Implementation Stakeholder Facilitation Schedule Management Permitting Compliance
• NEPA • • • • •
Third-party Contracting Issue Identification and Scoping Alternatives Analysis Environmental Impact Analysis Study Planning & Implementation
• • • •
Stakeholder Facilitation Cumulative Effects Analysis Mitigation & Enhancement Measures Record of Decision Preparation
• Regulatory Compliance & Reporting • • • •
Gathering FERC Orders Cataloging Historic Compliance Findings Conducting Compliance Audits Developing / Maintaining Compliance Database
•
• •
Developing / Populating / Maintaining Management Tools Develop Turnkey Solutions Evaluation of Compliance Tracking Software
Minimizing Roadblocks
and
Providing Solutions
We have experience managing
100
Licensing/ + FERC Relicensing Projects
and served for more than
10
years
as part of FERC’s Environmental Contractor Team
“{The Kleinschmidt Team} is always proactive! They keep things on track and on schedule and are very easy to work with. All of the Kleinschmidt | R2 team goes 100% to make sure we are getting things done.” - Columbia Basin Hydropower
Environmental Services Integrating Science, Planning, and Engineering to Provide Solutions to Complex Land and Water Resource Issues
Environmental Services Kleinschmidt | R2 has 40+ years of experience helping clients create sustainable solutions to complex land and water resource issues. We have become highly regarded for ecosystem assessments, individual habitat and river restoration projects, watershed management, water supply reservoir management, dam removal, fish passage, and impact studies for wetlands. Our success lies in our commitment to integrating science, planning, and engineering disciplines. By offering the biologist, the engineer, and the planner as part of one integrated team, we save clients time and money, and we create lasting solutions that benefit the environment.
Wetland & Habitat Investigations Wetlands provide a variety of functional benefits to society, such as clean drinking water and flood attenuation, in addition to important biological functions such as fish and wildlife habitat. Federal and state agencies regulate impacts to wetlands with the goal of maintaining wetlands as an important resource to people and the environment. Our scientists work with clients and regulators to avoid and minimize wetland impacts, which typically reduce project costs and streamline permitting efforts. In cases where mitigation is needed, we provide multidisciplinary design and monitoring services.
Stream Flow Regulation Studies Our experts lead the way in Instream Flow Incremental Methodology (IFIM) studies that include collaborating with interagency study teams to identify all flow related issues, focusing the study scope on applicable parameters, defining evaluation criteria, locating study sites and transects, gathering survey and hydraulic data, developing hydraulic and habitat models, analyzing model output, and preparing written reports and analyses
Fisheries & Aquatic Organism Assessments We perform and manage studies and analyses, and works with and/or for agencies, conservationists, and developers to mitigate or enhance diverse impacts on freshwater and estuarine and marine fisheries resources. Our expertise includes assessing the health of warm water, coldwater, anadromous and catadromous fish resources and endangered species, in riverine, lacustrine, and tidal environments.
Steam Electric 316(a) and (b) Compliance Our biological and engineering staff have over 3 decades of experience in dealing with 316(a) and (b) issues. By integrating biological science, engineering, socioeconomics and regulatory skills, we provide ample technical expertise to meet the needs of the project. We seek to define both resource issues and project constraints, helping to identify appropriate options for mitigating environmental impacts with the overall goal of developing project alternatives acceptable to both project proponents and regulatory authorities. We conduct the required studies as well as serve as peer reviewers.
Rare, Threatened, and Endangered Species Assessments We provide rare, threatened, and endangered (RTE) species assessments for hydroelectric and other energy relicensing, decommissioning, and compliance projects. In recent years, we have completed RTE species studies and consultation for numerous projects over a wide geographic range for wildlife, fish, and plant species. We have extensive experience with impact analyses. For energy developers, we have developed avian protection plans for birds and bats for issues related to new development (e.g., tree clearing) and operations (e.g., effect on raptors of perching on transmission lines).
Fish Passage and Protection Kleinschmidt | R2 has provided biological and engineering fish passage consulting services for more than 150 projects located throughout the United States and Canada. We are widely respected for conceptual and final design work of fish passage facilities and biological assessments relating to fish passage and entrainment at hydropower facilities. Our integration of fisheries biologists, regulatory specialists, and engineers provides an exceptional capability for solving problems involving the mitigation of fisheries impacts and enhancement of fisheries resources.
Species Restoration & Restoration Planning
Agency Consultation & Conceptual Layout As a highly competent fish passage consultant, we advocate for our clients and facilitates productive and efficient dialogue with agencies, non-governmental organizations, and stakeholders. Our experience and ability to advocate for our clients with the agency personnel who will be involved in their projects often leads to reduced project costs because we understand the agencies’ expectations and how to negotiate more practical approaches that are more constructible and acceptable to the owner and do not impact fishway effectiveness.
Engineering Design
Our multidisciplinary team of biologists, engineers, and regulatory specialists have outstanding knowledge and experience in the process of evaluating and developing fisheries protection and restoration plans in the context of fish passage requirements. We work with stakeholders and clients to facilitate and streamline a planning process to develop a plan that uses a sound science approach with objectives, priorities, and action items designed to optimize the benefit to the species while balancing our clients’ needs and providing cost-saving ideas along the way.
While designing fish and eel passage facilities of all types over the past 30 years, we developed a library of design components that we easily customize for each of our client’s projects to reduce design costs. Our library includes designs for eel passage, elevators/lifts, Denil ladders, Alaskan Steeppass, vertical slot, pool and weir, naturelike, sorting facilities, and downstream passage. We have designed more than a dozen fish lifts as well as the largest nature-like fish passage project in the Eastern United States.
Feasibility Studies & Alternative Analysis
Effectiveness Studies
Our dedicated fish passage team has conducted feasibility studies for more than 100 projects in North America. The process begins by consulting with the client regarding goals, objectives, and key elements of station operation that must be considered to develop an effective conceptual solution. With agency prescriptions or recommendations as a guide, we work with clients to develop a solution that addresses safety, compliance, revenue, and maintenance concerns.
We have conducted more than 40 effectiveness studies using an approach of consulting with our clients to identify and screen techniques for testing that are practical and cost-effective for the project. We have developed innovative statistical analyses techniques to automate fish tracking data reduction using algorithms that reduce processing times and costs and enhance data credibility with resource agencies. Our assessments are routinely accepted by resource agency personnel without the need for extensive additional data gathering or analysis resulting in cost savings for our clients.
We ARE the Fish Passage & Protection Experts
Water Resource Engineering & Habitat Restoration Providing Integrated Solutions to Meet Your Project Needs Our water resource engineering team is composed of technical experts in hydrology, hydraulics and civil engineering who interact with our fisheries, aquatic and terrestrial scientists to provide ecosystembased solutions. We offer a full spectrum of services beginning with detailed analyses and conceptual studies through design, project management, regulatory approvals and construction services.
We design environmental enhancements to mitigate impacts and recreational facilities to promote the public access to natural areas. Our scientists and engineers use field data, modeling and planning tools to efficiently design projects that meet the needs of varied stakeholders including public, private, and regulatory interests.
Water Resource Engineering & Habitat Restoration Restoration & Protection Design We offer wetland and stream restoration, as well as targeted designs to protect and enhance conditions for sensitive species that efficiently meet ecological needs and local, state, and federal agency requirements. Our services include design implementation, procurement support, construction management and post-construction monitoring; ensuring the future success of the individual projects according to project-specific federal monitoring requirements. We adopt an efficient, multidisciplinary approach to solving restoration needs by focusing on options that are low-risk, low-cost, durable, and designed to achieve regulatory approval.
Dam Decommissioning and Removal We have conducted more than 30 dam removal projects in nine states and one province for clients that include owners as well as public and private organizations. A complete alternatives analysis and cost-sensitive design requires access to a strong interdisciplinary mix of engineering, biology, and permitting expertise. Our engineering expertise includes civil, geotechnical, and structural disciplines (dam stability and fish passage design); our biologists have nationally recognized expertise in fish migration and passage, fluvial geomorphology, aquatic habitat, water quality, wetlands and wildlife; and our permitting staff is experienced with NEPA, FERC, state and federal permitting requirements, has strong public outreach and stakeholder management skills, and possess excellent working relationships with regulatory and natural resource agencies, conservation groups, and other stakeholders. Whether the decommissioning of your dam is primarily to restore fish passage or remove a structure that is no longer necessary, our team of experts has the experience and passion to work with you to make your project a success.
Recreation Facilities Design Our recreational design experience includes assisting federal licensees of hydropower projects to meet requirements for providing reasonable public access to project lands and waters for recreation. We assist these and other clients by assessing use and facilities and developing designs to support outdoor recreation management plans.
Our familiarity with regulatory requirements, recreational planning, and permitting allows us to assist our clients in developing new project designs in a timely, efficient manner that meet their needs and those of recreationalists. We focus on designing facilities that are safe to construct and safe to be used by recreationalists, while minimizing long-term operating and maintenance costs.
Watershed Planning In recent years, there has been a renewed focus on watershed planning in water resource management. State and federal regulators, as well as many non-governmental organizations, are actively promoting comprehensive planning and local community stewardship as alternatives to regulatory approaches. We provide planning, engineering, and environmental services to solve land and water resource concerns within a watershed or river basin. These services include smaller assessments that focus on a particular concern, as well as larger, more comprehensive evaluations that seek to balance multiple uses such as flood control, water supply, water quality, species and habitat protection, recreation, and energy production.
Green Stormwater Design Improved stormwater management is an important component of strategic initiatives for many municipalities, and many have developed Sustainable Stormwater Management Plans to counter deteriorating ecosystems. Kleinschmidt | R2 has developed green stormwater infrastructure (GSI), or source controls, which is a set of techniques that detain or retain stormwater runoff through capture and controlled release, infiltration into the ground, vegetative uptake and evapotranspiration thereby reducing the need for end-of-pipe stormwater storage and treatment systems. Our goal is to protect and enhance watersheds by managing stormwater runoff with innovative green stormwater infrastructure, maximizing economic, social, and environmental benefits.
Modeling & GIS Kleinschmidt | R2 has provided modeling and geographic information system (GIS) services for hundreds of projects throughout the United States and Canada. Our integration of modelers and GIS specialists provides an exceptional capability for solving problems and communicating results. From the creation of a simple figure to a set of complex analyses on multiple variables, GIS allows complex tasks to be completed efficiently with dramatic results. By combining hydrologic models and hydraulic modeling, we assist clients in understanding how the amount of runoff that enters rivers impacts their specific site locations. By combining the hydrologic and hydraulic modeling, engineers can easily relay how the changes could impact operating procedures, generation capacity, or compliance adherence.
Hydrologic & Hydraulic (H&H) Modeling Our hydrologic engineering experience includes developing new site-specific probable maximum flood (PMF) values and analyzing existing PMF conditions for dozens of projects throughout North America. We routinely revise flood frequency estimates for sites and apply hypothetical rainfall distributions in our hydrologic models. Our hydraulic engineers regularly perform hydraulic modeling and dam breach analyses to determine Inflow Design Flood (IDF) levels and hazard classifications. Our staff has completed hundreds of emergency action plans, dam breach studies, and inundation mapping projects. By combining hydrologic models and hydraulic modeling, we help clients understand how the amount of runoff that enters rivers impacts their specific site locations. The results of the combined hydrologic and hydraulic models allow engineers to relay how the changes could impact operating procedures, generation capacity, or compliance adherence.
Our Hydrologic Engineering Center (HEC) utlilizes software programs such as HEC-HMS, HEC-RAS, HECResSim, HECSSP, HEC-DSSVue, and our proprietary software McBreach.
GIS Mapping & Cartography Our GIS team uses state of the art production mapping techniques to identify efficiencies when drawing complicated technical map sets using both ESRI ArcGIS Pro 2.x and ArcMap 10.x. While producing maps, Kleinschmidt | R2’s analysts adhere to cartographic design principles so that we always produce crisp, clean, and professional mapping products for our clients.
GIS Analysis & Data Science Projects often require spatial data analysis beyond a simple map and overlay. Our GIS specialists routinely analyze complex spatial data in ArcGIS Pro 2.x, ArcMap 10.x, to provide our clients with actionable intelligence ranging across a diverse multidisciplinary landscape.
Remote Sensing With the advent of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and smaller, lighter, and less costly imagery sensors, remotely sensed data has become ubiquitous. The use of this data for natural resources mapping and as a source of input data for environmental process modeling and landscape ecology applications will transform environmental management in the 21st century. Our remote sensing team has the capability to incorporate data from a number of sensors, extract useful information, and deliver powerful insights with state-of-the-art software and analytical methods. Our remote sensing projects have saved our clients time and money as expensive, large team surveys are no longer required to assess the same area.
Analysis, Robust Data Management and State of the Art Analytics Climate Change The effects of more frequent episodes of extreme weather, changes in water resource availability, and climate variability on infrastructure, municipalities, ecosystems, wildlife, fisheries and human well-being have become apparent, particularly over the past decade. We can no longer focus solely on the effects of projects on the environment—whether the project is the construction of an energy production facility or development of a habitat restoration enhancement— but we must consider the effects of a changing environment on developments, cities, structures, watersheds, and terrestrial and aquatic habitats.
Our scientists, engineers, and planners can help you assess risks and potential vulnerabilities in your project in the context of climate change, identify and evaluate alternatives, and design sustainable solutions to maintain the efficiency and longevity of your project. We have the experience to develop adaptive plans and strategies to minimize risk in response to new challenges that arise as the environment around us continues to change.
THE SALT RIVER PROJECT REHABILITATION SUCCESS STORY
The Salt River Project (SRP) operates an aging hydropower facility at the Bureau of Reclamation’s Horse Mesa Dam in Maricopa County, Arizona. The original powerhouse built in 1927 sits at the base of a 660-foot long, 300-foot tall concrete thin arch dam and houses three conventional units capable of generating 32megawatts (MW) of power. In 1972, SRP added an additional 97 MW pumped storage unit that is housed in an adjacent structure next to the original powerhouse. The three conventional units and key components installed in the late 1920’s are aged beyond their intended life cycle, creating increased operational risks to reliably generate power. As part of their asset management program, SRP identified three original 84-inch turbine shutoff valves (TSVs) as rehabilitation program candidates, opting to completely replace the valves and actuator assemblies with modern 96-inch valves and equipment to match the existing 8-foot penstock diameters.
Kleinschmidt’s role in the project: Given our history of rehabilitation successes and working collaboratively with owners, SRP turned to Kleinschmidt to perform a full range of investigation, design and construction related engineering services to create the best approach for replacing the aged TSVs.
PROJECT STATS
To initiate the project, we performed a detailed site investigation to capture critical information from within the powerhouse including penstocks, actuators, anchor blocks and structural details inside the exceptionally small powerhouse. We leveraged a 3D scan performed by others to document critical dimensions and limitations for lifting and accessing various assemblies and to inform selective demolition to improve valve access.
Facility built in 1927
Following the inspection, we performed all structural design for the TSV replacement including targeted finite element and structural analysis of the powerhouse, penstocks and anchor blocks to address dam safety issues related to aged concrete and poorly documented as built conditions. Early research by the owner led to selection of an overseas valve manufacturer, who we worked closely with to understand structural loads and foundation block alignment to inform and design a structurally responsive solution.
Concrete gravity dam measuring 660 ft. long & 300 ft. high
COLLABORATION IS KEY TO PROJECT SUCCESS To supplement the limited as-built information, we also developed a comprehensive testing plan for non-destructive scanning and concrete coring to assess the material strength, rebar positioning and the ability to bear the structural loads of the larger valves in the powerhouse. The site’s space constraints and limited overhead access necessitated access through an outside powerhouse wall. As part of the replacement solution, we developed a unique structural loading dock platform to allow for the removal and transfer of the existing valves from the powerhouse to a barge crane located on the water side of the structure. Kleinschmidt worked closely with the owner and general contractor prior to design completion to develop the most constructible designs for penstock tie-ins and complex welding with aged metal to ensure safe replacement and integration with the existing equipment.
129MW Capacity 3 Conventional Units 1 Pumped Storage Unit
BARTLETT’S FERRY DAM REPLACEMENT THE SALT RIVER PROJECT CAPE FEAR HABITAT IMPROVEMENT
RESPONSIVENESS IS KEY Kleinschmidt’s collaborative, dynamic problem solving approach with the valve manufacturer, owner and general contractor led to our selection as the owner’s engineer during construction where we supported the Salt River Project in assessing and quickly responding to requests for information, submittal documents, field condition modifications and on-site inspection of the welding and fit-up of the valve flanges with the existing upstream penstocks. Our on-call 24/7 support allowed responsive engineering assessments during the construction period, ultimately reducing the potential downtime for the units while the replacement was underway. This success story hinges on a few key factors that led to the project’s ultimate success. • Kleinschmidt resourced the project with it’s “A Team”, maintaining the integrity of the team with a seasoned project manager, lead design engineer, senior technical advisor and key support personnel from the project’s inception to its completion.
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• Routine correspondence, detailed/responsive communication, and standing progress calls led to enhanced collaboration and trust between the owner and engineer, resulting in a strong, high performing team aligned on the goal of completing the project safely while minimizing the plant outage.
Recordable Injuries
0 Lost Time Injuries 0 Environmental Incidents
THE SALT RIVER PROJECT
Opal Springs Fish Passage
Unique win-win for endangered species and hydro project owner Client: Deschutes Valley Water District Project Location: Crooked River, OR Services Provided:
• Hydro Due Diligence • Hydro Energy Analysis • Hydro Economic Incentives • FERC Licensing / Relicensing / Amendments • Study Scoping and Plan Development • Regulatory Strategic Planning • Stakeholder Identification and Facilitation • Agency Consultation • FERC Compliance Management and Implementation • Shoreline Management Plans • Federal Permitting, State Agency Consultation and State/Local Permitting • NEPA - EAs and EISs
Project Timeframe: 2017-2019 Relationship with Client: Since 2012
Winner of 2019 EBJ Award
Client Needs: In response to the presence of reintroduced steelhead (threatened under the Endangered Species Act [ESA]), and salmon into the Upper Deschutes Basin, the Deschutes Valley Water District (DVWD) needed a way to reduce regulatory risk at its existing Opal Springs Hydroelectric Project. Fish passage was not required as part of the original project, and the existing Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) license expires in 2032. DVWD was concerned about ESA aspects of both upstream and downstream passage, because anadromous fish are being reintroduced into the Deschutes basin. Bull trout (ESA Threatened) are also present in the Project area.
Kleinschmidt | R2 Solution: Kleinschmidt | R2 is the Owners Representative for regulatory and engineering aspects of responding to the regulatory risk. Our personnel have a negotiated multi-party settlement agreement and subsequently developed a non-capacity amendment with the FERC seeking authorization to 1) construct a fish ladder; 2) increase the normal surface elevation of the run-of-river project; and 3) implement an adaptive management program to ensure ESA coverage. We developed an Applicant Prepared Environmental Assessment that addressed FERC’s NEPA requirements. We also represented the client in raising outside funding to assist with construction, and oversaw a value engineering process to bring down costs of construction.
Client Benefit: By negotiating the settlement agreement with agencies and non-governmental organizations, DVWD was able to manage risk associated with implementing fish passage. Screening of intakes and other modifications of project operations was avoided; the adaptive management approach ensures ESA compliance while limiting risk of further costly fish protection measures. The increase in pool elevation 1) provides additional generation potential to partially offset capital costs; 2) provides an enhanced ability to move water around the project to maximize fish passage success; and 3) avoided major dam safety considerations of having to breach the existing dam to accommodate fish passage.
Clear Branch Dam
Emergency spillway repairs to address seepage and movement Client Needs: Client: Middle Fork Irrigation District Project Location: Parkdale, OR Services Provided: • Hydrologic & Hydraulic Analysis Water Resource Engineering • Dam & Spillway Engineering
Project Timeframe: 2017-2019 Relationship with Client: Since 2012
Middle Fork Irrigation District (MFID) required engineering assistance to address excessive seepage issues and movement of the emergency spillway concrete slabs at its Clear Branch Dam.
Kleinschmidt | R2 Solution: Kleinschmidt | R2 ,working with a geotechnical subconsultant, gathered and reviewed available information regarding the construction activities, site geology, historic seepage issues, drain installation and repair information, along with historic and current instrumentation data. The team recommended supplementing the existing information and performing analyses to evaluate Potential Failure Modes (PFMs) including field explorations. The team investigated causes and remediation of damage to the emergency spillway. We reviewed existing breach and hydrologic analyses to complete risk analysis including failure and risk indexes, static failure index, and hydrologic failure index. Our analysis and determination of the source and volume of seepage under the spillway slab as well as the cause of the slab movement were key to developing mitigation measures. Based in part on the hydraulic analysis, we designed remediation measures to replace the damaged spillway sections and to upgrade the drainage measures on the downslope side of the dam. The repair consisted of replacing lateral drains along the spillway, construction of new underslab drains, and replacement of 50 feet of the concrete spillway chute. The spillway distress remediation included development of construction drawings and specifications for the repair work. The team provided continuous onsite construction observation during lateral and underslab drain construction.
Client Benefit: Kleinschmidt | R2’s rapid response reduced MFID’s risks, responded to dual agency interest (FERC and NRCS) while enhancing relationships with FERC investigators. The investigation, design and repair was completed in one construction season, competing with a narrow weather window to finish the project.
Upper Klamath Basin Water Rights Adjudication Client: Bureau of Indian Affairs Project Location: Portland, OR Services Provided: • Fisheries & Aquatic Sciences • Fish Population Assessments & Baseline Studies • Aquatic Habitat Assessments • Rare, Threatened & Endangered Species Assessments • Endangered Species Act Consulting • IFIM/PHABSIM • Hydrologic & Hydraulic Analysis • Riparian Maintenance • Water Rights • Expert Witness Testimony
Project Timeframe: 2001 - Present Relationship with Client: Since 2001
Client Needs: The Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) requires consulting support for development of comprehensive water rights claims in the Upper Klamath Basin (UKB), Oregon to sustain treaty reserved rights of the Klamath Tribes. For this project, numerous studies of the rivers and streams, marshes, seeps, springs and lakes within the UKB were required.
Kleinschmidt | R2 Solution: Kleinschmidt | R2 has completed and continues to work on numerous studies of the rivers and streams, marshes, seeps and springs, and lakes within the UKB for BIA since 2001. These studies have included assessment of instream flow needs, riverine and lacustrine fish biology, lake limnology and water quality, riparian and marsh ecology, and hydrologic monitoring and analysis of the Upper Klamath Watershed. We have developed instream flow recommendations that included the collection of field data on more than 40 streams in the basin. This consisted of habitat mapping, instream hydraulic and channel measurements, detailed hydraulic modeling, and physical habitat simulations. Additional studies were conducted to determine the long-term effect of water withdrawals on riparian plant growth. Numerous tasks were completed related to understanding the biology of resident trout species (redband and bull trout) found within the UKB. Tasks were also completed for the re-introduction of anadromous fish species (Chinook salmon and steelhead trout) including review of re-introduction plans, historic distribution mapping, development of run timing and lifestage periodicity, and assessment of upstream passage issues. Lake studies were conducted that included assessment of water quality including pH and dissolved oxygen and lake water level on the biology and habitat use by federally protected fish species. KA | R2 provided expert witness support to the federal government in response to contestants’ requests for interrogatories, productions, and admissions.
Client Benefit: Our team collected and analyzed data that led to the development of water rights claims for instream flow habitats, wetlands, seeps and springs, and lake elevations that were focused on provision of healthy and productive habitats for native fish species, waterfowl and wildlife in the Upper Klamath Basin of Oregon. This knowledge also enabled several team members to support the Federal Government with expert testimony during water rights hearings for the Klamath Basin Adjudication.
Baker Project Relicensing
FERC relicensing management including hydrology and aquatic resource studies Client Needs: Client: Puget Sound Energy, Inc. Project Location: Baker and Skagit Rivers, Washington Services Provided: • FERC Relicensing • Study Scoping & Plan Development • Regulatory Strategic Planning • Stakeholder Identification & Facilitation • Agency Consultation • Fisheries & Aquatic Sciences • Fish Population Assessments & Baseline Studies • Aquatic Habitat Assessments • IFIM • River Flow Management Plan • Hydrologic & Hydraulic Analysis
Project Timeframe: 2005 - Present Relationship with Client: 1999
The Baker River Hydroelectric Project consists of two dams and reservoirs with two powerhouses generating a total of 134 MW. Puget Sound Energy (PSE) required Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) relicensing services including strategic planning and aquatic resource studies.
Kleinschmidt | R2 Solution: Following prescribed Alternative Licensing Procedures, KA | R2 worked collaboratively with resource agencies, Tribes, non-governmental agencies, and PSE to identify, scope, and implement studies. We were responsible for study plan design, budgeting, implementing, and reporting 17 different fish and aquatic studies. Issues addressed during relicensing included State and U.S. Forest Service versus FERC definitions of baseline conditions, and with- and without-project scenarios. We undertook studies including analyzing project effects on geomorphic processes and developing a large woody debris budget to predict wood recruitment and transport. Habitat and biological surveys in the project subbasins were used to quantify fish distribution and abundance in addition to modeling potential reservoir and tributary fish production. We designed and conducted an instream flow study used to evaluate alternate management scenarios for project reservoirs and downstream habitats. The instream flow study used steady state and unsteady hydraulic models to assess changes in habitat conditions associated with seasonal and hourly flow patterns in the downstream Skagit River. In addition to relicensing studies, KA | R2 worked with PSE, the FERC, and the Services to evaluate operational alternatives to protect bull trout and Chinook salmon during pre-licensing conditions. We analyzed project hydrology, flood control requirements, hydropower generation, structural and operational capabilities and species requirements, and prepared separate Biological Assessments to address interim (pre-licensing) and post-licensing activities.
Client Benefit: We provided both fish passage and biological monitoring expertise to PSE during re-licensing and post-licensing activities. By designing both efficient and costeffective studies to determine the effectiveness of both Upper and Lower Baker floating surface collectors and an upstream fish trap, we demonstrated that these unique fish passage systems can operate together to bring fish populations that were on the brink of extinction to record highs in a matter of five generations. We continue to support PSE with training, monitoring and compliance.
Lewis River Air Cooler Replacement Project
Detailed investigation and specification for new generator air cooler
Client: PacifiCorp Project Location: Prospect, OR Project Size: 510 MW Services Provided: • Existing Facility & Equipment Condition Assessment • Penstock Inspection • Construction Services • Bid Specifications & Drawings
Project Timeframe: 2017 Relationship with Client: Since 2010
Client Needs: As part of an ongoing asset modernization effort, PacifiCorp was undertaking a generator air cooler replacement project at three powerhouses on the Lewis River. They required assistance to develop an effective replacement solution that would create a fair and open procurement solution with a goal of standardizing plant cooling systems.
Kleinschmidt | R2 Solution: Kleinschmidt | R2 worked with PacifiCorp to assess their needs and preferences for the new air coolers at the Merwin, Yale and Swift No. 1 powerhouses. Each site was built with different equipment creating a challenge for a universal solution. We reviewed as built drawings and design documents to study the layouts, then initiated a site investigation to assess equipment conditions. Using a combination of non-destructive testing that included borescope photography and ultrasound thickness testing, the engineer team assessed all critical piping and filtration systems to also understand long term mineral deposition potential, pipe corrosion and structural strength. With an accurate assessment in hand, KA | R2 conducted an industry survey of air cooler vendors, focusing on air cooler piping materials for heat transfer, ease of unit maintenance and long term performance. Following the vendor survey, we developed a universal replacement performance specification to meet air cooling performance, durability and maintenance needs.
Client Benefit: By assessing the condition of water supply piping, our engineers developed a comprehensive universal air cooler replacement solution with enhanced supply water filtration that will efficiently address each plant’s cooling needs and long term performance. The integrated solution balanced acquisition costs with performance, finding the right blend of operational attributes that met PacifiCorp’s needs.
Klickitat Hatchery Intake Feasibility Study and Concept Design Alternatives analysis and rapid design provide Mitchell Act compliance solution Client Needs: Client: Yakama Nation Fisheries Project Location: Glenwood, WA Project Size: 20 cfs intake and diversion structure
Services Provided:
As one of the nine Mitchell Act hatcheries in the northwest, the Klickitat Hatchery is required to meet Endangered Species Act (ESA) requirements under agreement with National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) for fish screening. The hatchery intake structure was non-compliant with ESA screening criteria. Additionally, a rearing pond (Pond 25) rapidly fills with sediment during spring runoff, reducing the water quality and volume to sustain healthy aquaculture operations.
Kleinschmidt | R2 Solution:
Project Timeframe: 2018
Kleinschmidt | R2 conducted a site walk to understand specific operation and layout concerns and assess alternatives that would meet NMFS screening design standards, while addressing sediment loads under a range of intake flows that supply Pond 25. The team investigated 5 different screen alternatives, recommending a Farmer’s Screen, similar to the site-adapted Coe Creek install with the Middle Fork Irrigation District (inset photo). We provided a detailed site layout including site civil design, and developed a first of its kind, scaled HECRAS model of the Farmer’s Screen to validate NMFS criteria including sweeping and approach velocities (< 0.4 fps) inside the screen and within the approach channel. Sweeping velocities exceeded all approach velocities meeting NMFS criteria. The team sampled sediment to estimate sediment capture within the screen box and address Pond 25 issues in addition to analyzing constructability considerations while developing construction cost estimates for the 30% design.
Relationship with Client: Since 2018
Client Benefit:
• Data Collection & Analysis
• Site Survey & Topographic Mapping • 1D HECRAS Modeling • Sediment & Transport Analysis • Fish Exclusion Analysis • Water Infrastructure Design in a High Value Water Resource Area • Cost Estimating
Kleinschmidt | R2’s broad knowledge of exclusion screening and fish passage led to a comprehensive study of possible alternatives to solve both the fish exclusion and sediment reduction challenges. The unique Farmer’s Screen HECRAS model enabled predictable scaling to accommodate the required range of system flows, while validating critical velocities to comply with NMFS requirements.
Cowlitz Falls Hydroelectric Fish facility remodeling
Client: Tacoma Public Utilities Project Location: Cowlitz River, WA Services Provided:
• Engineering Feasibility & Design • Cost Estimating • Permitting Support • Plans & Specifications
Project Timeframe: 2015-2019 Relationship with Client: Since 1996
Client Needs: Following completion of the overall North Shore Collector (NSC) surface water fish passage facility design was completed, Tacoma Power required design and construction services to remodel one of the components of the NSC called the Cowlitz Falls Fish Facility (CFFF) consisting of sampling, holding, and transport facilities.
Kleinschmidt | R2 |Solution: KA | R2 was contracted to design modifications to the CFFF’s fish separator, fish sampling facilities, holding pools, fish transport features, and to develop an on-site spring for an emergency water supply. The project also included an 1800 square foot - two story office/storage building along with retrofitting a new bathroom, lunch- room, and mud room into an existing building. We relied on in-house field biologists to guide the sampling station upgrades. These upgrades included streamlining the existing sampling facilities with a single anesthesia trough and multiple sampling/surgery stations. Recovery tanks were added to the fish release pathways along with a vault and hoist assembly for direct loading of a 500-gallon capacity transport tank. Other improvements included upgrading the supply piping to the adult and juvenile holding pools to maximize the holding capacity. Fish flume operation was automated with a VAKI fish counter and automatic positioning or fish flume outlets to better determine pool loading and subsampling of fish. A vacuum cleaning system with improved access platforms were added to the juvenile holding/winter acclimation ponds. A local 100 gpm spring was developed to provide an emergency water source to sustain fish, undergoing acclimation, when the normal supply is lost. The emergency water supply included a reuse system with the spring supply which includes new aeration towers, recirculation pumps, piping, and filters.
Client Benefit: The remodeling upgrades to the fish facility have greatly reduced the harm and stress to fish by: enabling subsampling while effectively counting all the bypassed fish, cooling the holding and transport water with the new spring source, eliminating the risk of overflows (and fish loss) in the pre-sampling tanks, and providing a more streamlined sampling process. The improvements also allow for long term acclimation of juvenile chinook in the holding ponds and a backup water supply through re-use and spring water.
Illabot Creek Stream Restoration Design Award winning design leveraged natural processes to achieve stability
Client: Skagit River System Coop Project Location: Rockport, WA Services Provided: • Hydraulic Engineering & Modeling • Geomorphic Assessment, Sediment Transport • Stream Restoration Design • Engineered Log Structures • Floodplain Connectivity • Plans, Specifications, and Estimates • Permitting Assistance • Construction Oversight
Project Timeframe: 2012-2018 Relationship with Client: 2005
Client Needs: The Skagit River System Cooperative (SRSC) , which provides natural resource management services for the Sauk-Suiattle Indian Tribe and Swinomish Indian Tribal Community, required assistance with development of conceptual and subsequent designs for returning Illabot Creek to a more natural channel state.
Kleinschmidt | R2 Solution: KA | R2 conducted a geomorphic analyses that indicated the natural channel target state was a braided channel, with a primary main channel and one to two smaller, sub-dominant braids. From KA | R2 conceptual design alternatives, SRSC selected a three-bridge option that included constructing two new pilot channels with two new bridges, and left the existing bridge and main channel in place. We designed the two new channels to have a braiding pattern characteristic of the local reach slope, dominant discharge, and substrate size distribution. We designed a crib jam to protect a bend, and a number of modular engineered log jams (ELJs) to provide habitat over the near term as the channel evolved. The plan also called for removing extensive lengths of a large levee from the main stem left bank upstream and downstream of the existing bridge to restore overbank flow, channel braiding, and floodplain connectivity. Much of the project area is privately owned, and the designs reflected landowner goals and constraints. Part of the project area was located in the City of Seattle’s high voltage transmission line corridor, which required special safety, constructability, and protection considerations for transmission towers and lines.
Client Benefit: The project was designed to incorporate channel response to natural erosion and sedimentation processes and minimize risk to property. In addition, natural materials were used to avoid unintended refuse left after channel adjustment. These features ultimately reduced both construction and maintenance costs.
Prospect Penstock Repair
When a large rock ruptured a penstock Kleinschmidt | R2 designed an economical repair Client Needs: Client: PacifiCorp Project Location: Prospect, OR
A minivan-sized boulder rolled down the slope above the Prospect powerhouse, rupturing the partially exposed riveted steel penstock in several places. PacifiCorp required engineering assistance to assess the penstock and develop repair details that could be quickly and safely constructed on the steep slope.
Project Size: 32 MW
Kleinschmidt | R2 Solution:
Services Provided: • Existing Facility & Equipment Condition Assessments • Penstock Investigation & Design • Construction Services • Bid Specifications & Drawings
Project Timeframe: 2016-2017 Relationship with Client: Since 2010
Kleinschmidt | R2 quickly mobilized engineers to the site to perform rope access and confined space inspection of the 5-foot diameter, 1,200 foot long, partially buried penstock to assess initial damage from the penetration. Engineers also performed a structural evaluation of the penstock, investigating a variety of loading conditions and failure modes due to rock slides. Following the initial assessments, we designed repairs to the penstock including replacement of the ruptured section, reinforcement and repair to 12 support saddles and repair to damaged riveted joints and the installation of a new manhole access point. The drawings and accompanying design report incorporated general contractor feedback to ensure constructability and a timely repair. KA | R2 developed the Quality Control and Inspection Plan (QCIP) and provided engineering assistance during construction for PacifCorp. This engineering assistance included reviewing construction material submittals, special inspection reports and testing results, conducting periodic site visits and answering requests for information as the project proceeded to construction.
Client Benefit: Our rapid response with knowledgeable engineers led to a thorough on site assessment to characterize damage and assess risks for future operation and rockslide hazards. Our practical design allowed a general contractor to quickly mobilize to the site and repair damages, reducing downtime for the hydropower operations.
Fleish Turbine Inspection
Inspection of 100 year old turbine to assess aging hydropower plants Client Needs: Client: Truckee Meadows Water Authority (TMWA) Project Location: Reno, NV
The Truckee Meadows Water Authority (TMWA) owns and operates an aging hydropower fleet that dates back to the early 1900’s. To increase plant reliability and create additional operational flexibility, TMWA implemented a plant life extension program for its hydropower assets. As part of this program, TMWA hired Kleinschmidt | R2 to visually inspect the turbine and key components of its Fleish Hydroelectric plant located near Verdi, Nevada.
Project Size: 2.5 MW
Kleinschmidt | R2 Solution: Services Provided:
• Existing Facility & Condition Assessments
Project Timeframe: 2019 Relationship with Client: Since 2018
The Fleish hydro station contains a 2.5MW Westinghouse electric generator, powered by a double horizontal Platt Iron Works Francis type turbine that was commissioned in 1905. Repair records indicate major turbine maintenance in 1938 and again in 1990, focusing on reinforcing cracked stay vanes and welding to repair eroded interfaces along the center ring. Our visual inspection revealed that the erosion along the stay vanes and the reinforcing repairs is significant and recommended a focused finite element analysis (FEA) as a way to calculate the induced stresses and inform potential repair strategies. Additional visual inspections of the wicket gates, center ring and tie rods indicated minor potential repairs to address.
Client Benefit: Performing FEA over a typical section of the turbine’s eroded stay vanes and center ring saves cost for TMWA, and better informs the most appropriate and cost effective repair strategies. Complemented by another non-destructive test, dye liquid penetrant, we have found these techniques to be the most cost effective methods for developing focused repairs in hydromechanical equipment.
Hebgen Spillway Replacement
Design, replacement of concrete spillway to ensure safety Client Needs: Client: NorthWestern Energy Project Location: West Yellowstone, MT Services Provided:
• Dam and Spillway Engineering • Conceptual Design • Stability Analysis • FERC Amendments • Plan Development • Construction Support
Project Timeframe: 2014 - 2016 Relationship with Client: Since 2014
NorthWestern Energy wanted to replace Hebgen Dam’s spillway structure that was deemed susceptible to failure or a controlled reservoir release during a maximum credible earthquake. The spillway channel had long suffered from concrete expansion and degradation and would likely not survive an earthquake to the degree acceptable to Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) standards.
Kleinschmidt | R2 Solution: Kleinschmidt | R2 developed a conceptual plan and designed the complete replacement of the concrete spillway that included the hydraulic capacity to pass water during flooding that would maintain satisfactory maximum pond levels. We also designed the 700-foot-long concrete discharge chute that included a gated concrete spillway structure with steel slide gates, steel access bridge, steel access platform, and a curved concrete discharge chute with flip bucket. We performed a stability analysis of the spillway and downstream discharge structure, and submitted specifications and supporting documents to FERC for approval.
Client Benefit: To attain the client’s desired outflow capacity, we optimized configuration of the spillway chute to minimize effects on the hydraulic performance of the gate structure. During the construction phase of the project, we also assisted the client in the technical review of submittals, responded to requests for information for concurrence with the design intent, analyzed contractor-proposed design changes, and revised designs as appropriate.
Cutler Hydro Electric Project Strategic FERC relicensing services
Client Needs: Client: PacifiCorp Project Location: Box Elder and Cache, UT Services Provided:
• Regulatory Strategic Planning • FERC Licensing • Stakeholder Identification • Workshop Presentation
Project Timeframe: 2018 to Present Relationship with Client: Since 2005
PacifiCorp required Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) relicensing assistance for its Cutler Hydroelectric Project.
Kleinschmidt | R2 Solution: Kleinschmidt | R2 initially developed the Notice of Intent to relicense the Project and the Pre-Application document (PAD). An important aspect of the project has been managing the stakeholder outreach as the project lands are adjacent to hundreds of adjoining landowners who manage their properties for agricultural and ranching uses. Additionally, the project reservoir is located on a nationally recognized wildlife and migratory bird refuge. We prepared the PAD, attended stakeholder workshops, and is currently scoping studies. We will continue to manage the relicensing process including upcoming study planning, stakeholder engagement throughout the FERC public process, and filing of the Final License Application.
Client Benefit: Kleinschmidt | R2 was able to assist the owner in submitting a robust PAD despite a short turnaround time and multiple stakeholder meetings with heavy agency and public involvement. We have also provided strategic guidance on the upcoming early study season to better inform the future Final License Application.
Lemolo No. 1 – Tainter Gate Inspection & Analysis
Radial (Tainter) Gate Inspection and Analysis
Client Needs: Client: PacifiCorp Project Location: North Umpqua River (80 miles east of Roseburg, OR) Project Size: Single radial gate measuring 33’ wide by 10’ tall with 16’ operating radius Services Provided:
• Dam Safety Inspection • Dam Safety & Structural Assessment • Electrical & Mechanical Assessment • Gates & Water Control Design
Project Timeframe: 2019 Relationship with Client: Since 2005
PacifiCorp wanted to manage dam safety risk while satisfying FERC’s Tainter Gate Initiative by completing inspections of structural, electrical, and mechanical systems of a radial (Tainter) gate at a high-hazard development. PacifiCorp also wanted to revise the structural analysis to comply with updated evaluation criteria and site-specific earthquake and flood loads.
Kleinschmidt | R2 Solution: Kleinschmidt | R2 performed close-up structural inspections of the skin plate, vertical ribs, girders, radial arms and trunnions using industrial rope access techniques to access various components of the gate (trunnions, structural members, seals, and operators) and completed electrical and mechanical inspections. We performed electrical load testing on an aged motor, evaluated gear mesh and provided a preventive check for mechanical wear by sampling gearbox oil and analyzing at a laboratory. We reviewed and revised the structural analysis of the gate using updated acceptance criteria and seismic hazard information and identified critical structural components that require strengthening to resist flood loads. We found no dam safety concerns related to normal operation of the gate and offered recommendations to ensure reliable operation of the gate.
Client Benefit: We provided a one stop shop to safely access the gate with skilled engineers who were able to inspect and structurally analyze the gate using Finite Element Methods. The comprehensive evaluation of electrical and mechanical systems increases PacifiCorp’s knowledge of the gate’s operational risks under a variety of load cases. Recommendations were built with an eye toward a preventive program that combines robust maintenance programs with minor structural rehabilitation to extend the life of this critical asset.
Trail Bridge Downstream Fish Passage Design Unique radial gate solution optimizes existing infrastructure for downstream passage
Client Needs: Client: Eugene Water and Electric Board Project Location: McKenzie Bridge, OR Project Size: 28.6 MW Services Provided: • Concept Formulation • Alternatives Analysis • Mechanical Design • Structural Design • 3D SolidWorks Modeling • Cost Estimating • Performance Specification
Development
Project Timeframe: 2019-2020 Relationship with Client: 2008
As part of FERC relicensing for the Project, a Settlement Agreement was negotiated with multiple federal, state, and local entities, requiring EWEB to design, construct, and operate upstream and downstream fish passage facilities at Trail Bridge dam. Downstream fish passage is specified as using the existing Trail Bridge spillway, with modifications to the spillway gate, hoist, and spillway surface required to accommodate continuous flow downstream to the McKenzie River, while decreasing fish injury and mortality for downstream migrating fish.
Kleinschmidt | R2 Solution: Kleinschmidt | R2, as a subcontractor to Jacobs, evaluated the cost, constructability and operational viability of alternative gate and hoist modification concepts for the spillway gate with a goal of assisting in the selection of a final modification concept. We provided mechanical and structural engineering input to a gate alternative decision matrix used by Jacobs and EWEB to score and rank the 6 preliminary alternatives. We finalized 3D Solidworks drawings for the selected gate alternative, created the basis for a performance specification for gate fabrication, and developed material quantities that the Jacobs cost estimating team could use to develop a Class 5 cost estimate including O&M cost items.
Client Benefit: Kleinschmidt | R2’s engineers advanced the design of a unique, cost effective lift gate within a radial gate design that provides enhanced downstream passage of fish, while complying with important structural and dam safety related design elements to ensure safe operation of the dam’s spillway.
Willamette Falls Spillway Gate Replacement Retrofit an existing spillway with new Obermeyer Crest gates Client: Portland General Electric
Client Needs:
Project Location: Willamette River Oregon City, OR
Portland General Electric required analyses, design, and construction support for the installation of an inflatable flashboard system on the Blue Heron Lagoon Spillway at the Willamette Falls hydroelectric project. The intent of the project is to improve operation of the spillway structure by replacing stop log gates with pneumatically actuated flashboards along 18 of the dam’s spillway bays, fitting three bays with a new concrete stop log system and adding a pneumatically operated gate to the sluiceway.
Project Size: 17.5 MW Services Provided: • Hydrologic and Hydraulic Analysis • Existing Facility & Equipment Condition Assessments • Electrical Power & Interconnection System Design • Dam & Spillway Engineering • Dam Safety Inspections • Gates & Water Control Design • Dam Rehabilitation Design • Construction Services
Project Timeframe: 2016-2017 Relationship with Client: Since 2007
Kleinschmidt | R2 Solution: Kleinschmidt | R2 performed analyses to document site conditions including performing a hydraulic capacity study to quantify the hydraulic discharge capacity associated with the Inflow Design Flood (IDF) for installation of the new spillway and sluice gates. Following this task, the team also performed a stability analyses of the two typical modified spillway sections, assessing 4 different loading conditions which included icing and seismic risks along with the IDF and normal headpond scenarios. This analysis was done according to FERC guidelines, based on existing drawings and the Supporting Technical Information (STI) document for the project. Our design featured an Obermeyer Flashboard system, embedding supply lines into the spillway face. The final design configured compressors, air dryers, air receivers and controls within a limited space of an existing building on the spillway structure and integrated a solar array as a source for equipment power. Project engineers provided assistance throughout construction including onsite inspections and commissioning.
Client Benefit: Kleinschmidt | R2’s engineers scaled other previous Obermeyer Flashboard designs to economize design effort and incorporate other lessons learned from earlier projects not only in design, but throughout construction. The resultant short term capital cost savings and efficient operation of the new system also produced long term O&M savings for the client while reducing operator related risks to control flows over the spillway bays.
Red Blanket Dam Repair Design Fast track dam repair design reduced lost generation Client: PacifiCorp Project Location: Prospect, OR Services Provided:
• Dam Safety & Structural Assessment • Dam & Spillway Engineering • Dam Rehabilitation Design • Bid Specifications & Drawings • Construction Services
Project Timeframe: 2015-Ongoing Relationship with Client: Since 2005
Client Needs: PacifiCorp required an investigation and repair designs at the Red Blanket Diversion Dam to address flood dam-age resulting from a high flow event in December 2014. The high flow event resulted in over-topping of the dam causing erosion on the right embankment at the low flow bypass structure, left embankment at the left wingwall, and an area below the lower stilling basin concrete section on the left side of the dam.
Kleinschmidt | R2 Solution: Kleinschmidt | R2 initially conducted a screening level site inspection and investigation and subsequently a more detailed investigation of the dam involving dewatering of the dam’s toe and abutments to confirm appropriate temporary and permanent repair requirements. We directed stabilization of the scoured areas tempo-rarily to provide additional support to the spillway and abutments to prevent further damage until a permanent repair was designed and constructed. We designed 10 components of dam repair to restore the dam to stable condition and to reduce risk and future maintenance. We prepared final plans and specifications and performed engineering during construction including providing construction observation and documentation of the rehabilitation work at specific construction milestones.
Client Benefit: Kleinschmidt | R2 completed this fast track project on time and on budget reducing outage time and lost generation for PacifiCorp’s Rogue River Hydropower Project.
Flood Management and Mitigation Planning Fast track, adaptive management approach to mitigate impacts from flood retention structure
Client: Chehalis River Basin Flood Control Zone District Project Location: Chehalis River Basin, WA Project Size: Chehalis River Basin
(2, 600 square miles)
Services Provided:
• Data Collection and Analysis • Geosmorphic Analysis • Aquatic and Terrestrial Studies • Mitigation Planning and Studies • Hyporheic Enhancement Strategies • EDT Modeling Input • Agency and Tribal Coordination • Cost Estimating
Project Timeframe: 2019 - present Relationship with Client: Since 2018
Client Needs: The Chehalis River Basin Flood Control Zone District faced a challenge of developing a comprehensive mitigation plan to offset the impacts of a proposed flood retention structure and levee system on the Chehalis River. Mitigation planning had to occur simultaneously with the development of NEPA and SEPA EIS documents due to budget cycle funding to keep the project on schedule.
Kleinschmidt | R2 Solution: Kleinschmidt | R2 created a purpose-built team to assess and further quantify the impacts of a proposed flood retention structure storing a temporary pool on the Chehalis River near Pe Ell, WA. Once these impacts were correctly quantified, the team established a Geospatial Unit (GSU) specific approach to mitigate the impacts for both aquatic and terrestrial species and habitats. Key to this effort was the coordination with environmental agencies and gaining their buy in to the development of mitigation types and quantities by GSU, while not duplicating other efforts in the basin already in motion under the Aquatic Species Restoration Plan (ASRP). The team worked closely with modelers to develop inputs to the Ecosystem Diagnosis and Treatment (EDT) model to assess likely mitigation impacts at the sub reach and project area.
Client Benefit: Kleinschmidt | R2’s ability to manage the schedule and quality of deliverables while closely coordinating actions with the client and stakeholders resulted in the development of a well-integrated and implementable set of mitigation options that stand the scrutiny of scientific challenges.
Castile Falls 4/5 Fishway Restoration Design Flexible weir design concept reduces sediment deposition to restore fish passage
Client Needs: Client: Yakama Nation Fisheries Project Location: River Mile 64, Klickitat River, Yakima County, WA Project Size: 200 foot long basalt tunnel with 42 foot wide weir system Services Provided:
• Data Collection and Anaysis • Site Survey and Topographic Mapping • 1D-HECRAS Modeling • Fish Passage Engineering • Water Infrastructure Design in a High Value Water Resources Area • Cost Estimating
Project Timeframe: 2019 Relationship with Client: Since 2018
The Yakama Nation Fisheries team identified chronic sediment interference and poor fish passage performance for a critical fishway project which is used to bypass a steep series of cascading falls on the Klickitat River. The fishway is a 200 foot long tunnel blasted into the basalt canyon wall and was originally fitted with vertical slot baffles to provide passage around the falls. A weir was later added near the exit to reduce sediment deposition; however, due to a poor weir design, sediment deposits moved over the weir, filled the baffles and created a significant barrier, preventing upstream fish passage for steelhead and salmon through the fishway.
Kleinschmidt | R2 Solution: Kleinschmidt | R2 led the investigation into causes of the sediment deposition, analyzing system hydrology and the river’s hydraulic characteristics related to the existing weir system. Through detailed hydraulic modeling over a range of flows, velocities were established that correlated to a range of sediment sizes and habitual transport/deposition patterns. With knowledge of the hydraulics and transport/deposition regime, KA | R2 developed several alternatives including an inflatable weir conceptual design that used an Obermeyer system to selectively raise and lower up to three different weir sections depending on flows to redistribute sediment and reduce deposition in the tunnel and at its outlet. Given unique site conditions, constructability considerations were accounted for in the cost estimating process.
Client Benefit: Kleinschmidt | R2’s innovative approach uses an inflatable weir design to redistribute sediment in the river system, offering a promising solution to a longstanding sediment deposition problem. Early modeling results reflect a high probability of reducing sediment deposition in the tunnel, while retaining natural material in the river system and providing gravel for downstream spawning habitat.
Bishop Creek FERC Relicensing
Early stakeholder engagement to manage risk and uncertainty of relicensings Client Needs: Client: Southern California Edison
Project Size: 28.6 MW
Southern California Edison (SCE) required regulatory and environmental support for the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) relicensing for the Bishop Creek Hydroelectric Project. The Project is located in the Eastern Sierra’s and consists of five powerhouses with a licensed capacity of 28.6 megawatts. SCE was interested in a relicensing approach that would address schedule constraints of a lengthy licensing process.
Services Provided:
Kleinschmidt | R2 Solution:
Project Location: Bishop, CA
• FERC Licensing/Relicensing/Amendments • Study Scoping & Plan Development • Regulatory Strategic Planning • Agency Consultation
Project Timeframe: 2018 - Present Relationship with Client: Since 2018
Kleinschmidt | R2 is managing the modified Integrated Licensing Process with SCE, and has developed a draft PAD and study plans, in collaboration with technical work groups pre-filing of the NOI and PAD. The approach enabled SCE to identify issues early and reach agreement in the primary issues to be addressed in relicensing. This allows for additional time to conduct and conclude studies in support of a new license.
Client Benefit: Early consultation and front-end work has engaged stakeholders and will result in agreement upon studies which will be implemented in support of the license application. This early engagement is expected to reduce project costs by minimizing rework and streamlining stakeholder approvals in the later stages of the project. Moreover, the early implementation of studies will provide for additional time in advance of the filing of the license application to consider appropriate protection, mitigation, and enhancement measures.
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