Upper McKenzie recreation sites to open May 1

from Eugene Water and Electric Board

After nine years of closure, recreation sites on the Upper McKenzie River associated with the Carmen Smith hydroelectric project will reopen to the public on May 1, offering campers, hikers, and day visitors access to newly renovated facilities. 
 
The USDA Forest Service and Linn County Parks will officially re-open the sites for public use on May 1. 
 
Campsites at Trail Bridge Campground are now available for booking on Recreation.gov. The first reservable date is May 14.
 
EWEB provides recreational opportunities as part of its federal license to operate the Carmen Smith hydroelectric project. The project includes three dams and two power plants that provide roughly 6-9% of Eugene’s electricity needs depending on the water year.
 
The improvements represent a $10.8 million investment in public recreation infrastructure along the Upper McKenzie River, negotiated as part of a broad licensing agreement developed with fisheries and wildlife management agencies, environmental groups, Native American tribes, and recreational organizations.

The new 40-year operating license, issued by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, allows EWEB to operate the carbon-free hydroelectric facility through at least 2059.
 
 “For EWEB, this work reflects our commitment to the community and responsible stewardship of our hydroelectric projects. We are very excited to welcome recreators back to these special places,” said License Deployment Supervisor Patty Boyle.
 
The licensing process also includes significant investments in natural resource projects to protect fish and wildlife habitat, and in the hydroelectric facility itself.
 
The project’s three reservoirs manage water to balance generation and fisheries needs. Each reservoir has multiple amenities, including hiking trails, viewing platforms, and boat ramps.

The Carmen Smith hydroelectric project is on land administered by the USDA Forest Service – Willamette National Forest.

Linn County Parks operates most Willamette National Forest campgrounds across Linn County through a concessionaire permit.

Anyone with questions about visiting these recreation sites should inquire online or by contacting the McKenzie River Ranger Station at (541) 822-3381.

Image Trail Bridge Reservoir courtesy EWEB website.