Technology manufacturer Kongsberg Mesotech Limited has released a new ultra high-resolution sonar head with applications in underwater inspections of hydropower projects and dams.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has awarded a contract worth US$255.53 million Kiewit Infrastructure West Co. for work at the 198.72-MW Folsom hydropower project.

Hydro technology manufacturer Saab Seaeye has expanded its international presence with the opening of a new office in Houston, the England-based company has announced.

Work continues as the United States Coast Guard and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers continue salvage operations at Marseilles Lock and Dam, where several barges came to rest against the dam structure after breaking free from their towing vessel this past week.

A 20% capacity decrease at the 3-MW Shoshone Powerplant led Bureau of Reclamation personnel to commission an underwater sonar inspection of the penstock and river outlet intakes. Images revealed significant sediment accumulation around the intake that likely is responsible for the decreased generation at the plant.

Those planning to attend the world's largest event dedicated to the hydroelectric power industry can get a head start on their scheduling with the HydroVision International 2013 Preliminary Event Guide.

A new line of low-cost acoustic transponders and an interrogator from JW Fishers could help make underwater work for hydroelectric project owners, operators and developers easier, the Massachusetts-based manufacturer said.

Personnel safety, cost, efficiency and effectiveness were all determining factors when the operators of Lake Lynn Dam and its associated 51.2-MW powerhouse sought a solution to improve debris management practices. The new solution has prevented mechanical failures and reduction in spillway capacity.

Efforts to repair a fish ladder at Oregon's Leaburg Dam are under way, sources report.

Loose rock appearing in the water conveyance tunnel at the 1,000-MW Kemano powerhouse was a concern for the owner, who turned to the use of remotely operated vehicles to determine the cause and extent of the problem.