Bureau of Reclamation News: Lake Moovalya water level to temporarily drop about one foot

Lower Colorado Region
Boulder City, Nev.

Media Contact:

Robert Walsh
702-293-8421

Released On: December 17, 2004

Lake Moovalya water level to temporarily drop about one foot

Lake Moovalya, the small body of water impounded behind Headgate Rock Dam north of Parker, Arizona, will be lowered approximately one foot in elevation for a two week period in January 2005.

The drawdown is scheduled to begin Monday, January 3, at 10:00 a.m. Mountain Standard Time (MST). The one-foot drop should be reached by 2:00 p.m. MST, but if unfavorable conditions are encountered, the drawdown time could be extended. Water levels are expected to return to normal by mid-afternoon on Saturday, January 15.

During the drawdown, Lake Moovalya will be maintained at approximately elevation 363.40 or about one foot below its normal level.

The drawdown is not expected to impact releases from Parker Dam and flows below Headgate Rock Dam.

All river users should remember that fluctuating or lower than normal river flows may expose or create natural hazards such as moving sandbars, gravel bars, unstable riverbanks, floating or submerged debris, or other unfamiliar obstacles. As always, caution should be exercised while using the river.

More information on Colorado River operations can be found on-line at: http://www.usbr.gov/lc/riverops.html.

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Reclamation is the largest wholesale water supplier and the second largest producer of hydroelectric power in the United States, with operations and facilities in the 17 Western States. Its facilities also provide substantial flood control, recreation, and fish and wildlife benefits. Visit our website at www.usbr.gov.