A Winning Partnership: Krah USA and J-U-B Engineers Solve Susanville's Water Challenges

Project Background

In the scenic Honey Lake Valley of Susanville, California, a critical infrastructure project was underway: the Old Channel Lining Project. Funded by a $4 million grant from the California Department of Water Resources, the project's primary objective was to pipe a 2,415-foot section of the Old Channel canal. This initiative was designed to serve two vital purposes: to significantly improve water conservation efforts by preventing leakage and to enhance water quality by separating urban stormwater from the irrigation supply relied upon by local farmers.

The Challenge

The project’s ambitious goals presented unique challenges. The chosen piping solution needed to be more than just a conduit; it had to be a durable, long-term asset capable of ensuring maximum water conservation. A key requirement was the assurance of water-tight joints. This also provided the flexibility to potentially pressurize the pipeline in the future. The project required a partner who could not only supply a high-quality product but also provide the technical expertise and support necessary for a successful installation.

The Solution

J-U-B Engineers, recognizing the project's specific needs, chose Krah USA’s custom High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) pipe. Krah USA's solution was an ideal fit, offering a custom product designed to meet the precise demands of the project. The pipe’s robust design and ability to be joined with electrically welded, water-tight joints directly addressed the client’s core objectives. Furthermore, Krah USA's commitment went beyond just product delivery; the company provided on-site technical support and training on the joint welding process, ensuring the J-U-B team was fully equipped for a seamless installation.

Installation & Performance

The installation process was a testament to the collaborative spirit of the teams. The Krah USA pipe performed exceptionally well during construction. While the electrically welded joints required more time to install than conventional gasketed pipe, this was a deliberate and necessary trade-off to meet the client’s demand for a truly water-tight solution. This attention to detail during installation proved to be a critical factor in the project's long-term success.

Key Outcomes

The Honey Lake Valley Resource Conservation District’s  Old Channel Lining Project was an overwhelming success, achieving all of its primary goals. The key outcome was the successful separation of urban stormwater from the irrigation supply, leading to a significant improvement in water quality for downstream users. The farmers who rely on the Old Channel have expressed their satisfaction with the easy operation of the new system and, most importantly, the improvement in water quality, which is especially beneficial for those using the water for livestock.

Testimonial Quotes

The success of the project is best reflected in the feedback from the J-U-B Engineers team:

“The Krah USA pipe performed well during construction and in operation.” - Ben Volk PE, CWRE, WRS, F.ASCE Program Manager - Lead “Krah USA provided great technical support, including training on the joint welding process.”

This project stands as a powerful example of how a high-quality product, combined with expert technical support and a strong collaborative partnership, can lead to outstanding results for both clients and the community.