Twice a year, we clean a 15-mile portion of the main Contra Costa Canal from Antioch to Clyde (see the map below). Downstream of Clyde, we are able to drain and clean the canal in the winter. See more information about the Contra Costa Loop Canal Cleaning.
How does CCWD clean the Contra Costa Canal?
We clean the canal with a giant, radio-controlled sled. Pushed by the current in the canal, the sled acts like a giant squeegee, pushing mud and grim ahead of it. At gates or drops, the sled is lifted out of the canal, and then placed back on the other side. A day later, the accumulated mud and grime is scooped out of the canal. The sled's speed is controlled by lifting or lowering the huge blade. There are also adjustable flaps on its sides. Watch the video below the map to see the sled in action.