Pioneer will be using this space to show you what kinds of projects we are working on to improve the water delivery system.   

Phyllis Canal Liner - In recent years, Pioneer has undertaken several large projects to line vulnerable sections of the Phyllis Canal. What is hard to see from the photos is the drop-off on the north side of the Phyllis Canal, where it sits approximately 40' above the valley floor. Pioneer added a canal liner at this point to prevent any future breaches.

Elijah Drain Crossing at Phyllis Canal - The crossing that carries the Elijah Drain under the Phyllis Canal was aging and in need of repair. Work was done to replace aging and damaged pipe, lowering the water level and helping protect the entire structure.

Automated Water Controls - Over the last several years, Pioneer has stepped up efforts to measure water flows at strategic locations to determine where installation of automation components can benefit water controls in the District.  As prime areas are located, automation is installed to enhance control of water, making water delivery more accurate and assisting in water conservation.

Butts Flume Replacement 2015 - Butts Flume is the structure that allows the Phyllis Canal to cross over the top of the Upper Embankment Drain, south of Smith Ave. and east of Lake Ave. The structure that was replaced was installed in the 1920’s or 1930’s (we haven’t been able to determine exact construction date) and was deteriorating.  As you can see from the before pictures, there was severe cracking in the concrete of the structure. Water was starting to erode the actual crossing, creating holes for water to run from the flume in to the drain.

As part of this project, the entire structure was removed. The canal and drain were cleaned, pipe was placed in the drain, and a new concrete flume structure was installed. Additionally, a portion of the Phyllis on both sides of the crossing was lined, increasing safety and preventing water loss. 

Projects

Bruno Lateral Piping - Piping of the Bruno Lateral eliminated maintenance issues caused by encroachment on the facility. You can see from the photos that the fences are too close to the ditch, making it difficult to access. By piping this section, those maintenance issues are gone and the water can flow freely through a pipeline instead of an open ditch.