Overview

• The incident occurred early afternoon on August 7 near the New Colgate Powerhouse in Dobbins, just southwest of New Bullards Bar Reservoir.
• The unnamed contractor died when heavy machinery veered off a steep embankment during routine excavation work.
• The New Colgate Powerhouse is part of a broader hydroelectric infrastructure project overseen by Yuba Water Agency.
• General Manager Willie Whittlesey said the agency is devastated and extended condolences to the worker’s family and colleagues.
• Yuba Water Agency confirmed it is fully supporting authorities as they probe the causes of the accident.