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Bid Date/Time: Aug. 4, 2009, 10 a.m.

Spanning the main stem of the Rogue River at river mile 125.7, Gold Ray Dam is a 38-foot-high, 360-foot-long, defunct hydroelectric facility.

The power house was constructed in 1904 and closed permanently in 1972. Jackson County took ownership of the dam and an adjacent 159.7 acres for the development of a recreational park.

The dam is a major liability for Jackson County and a maintenance burden for Jackson County taxpayers. In additon to the annual maintenance costs, the county will face major costs to repair and reinforce the aging structure and improve its fish passage facilities. Gold Ray Dam has been identified by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife as fifth in priority for removal and/or fish passage improvement on Oregon’s statewide fish passage priority list.

Jackson County, through the Rogue Valley Council of Governments, is accepting proposals from qualified parties to conduct environmental studies, obtain permits, complete construction designs and remove Gold Ray Dam.

A mandatory pre-bid meeting for all prospective bidders will be held on Aug. 4 at 10 a.m. at the Jackson County Public Works Auditorium at 7520 Table Rock Road in Central Point.