Bureau of Reclamation News: Fluctuation of Bighorn River Flow Downstream of Boysen Dam

Great Plains Region
Billings, Mont.

Media Contact:

Coleman W. Smith, Jr.
(307) 261-5671

Released On: May 08, 2012

Fluctuation of Bighorn River Flow Downstream of Boysen Dam

The Bureau of Reclamation, at the request of irrigation districts below Boysen Dam, has scheduled a flushing flow in the Big Horn River downstream of Boysen Dam, according to Wyoming Area Manager, Coleman W. Smith, Jr.

The purpose of the flushing flow is to reduce the amount of floating algae that is clogging irrigation intakes and delivery systems in the Bighorn River. The small fluctuation in the release from Boysen Dam has also been coordinated with the Wyoming Game and Fish Department and is not anticipated to adversely affect the river fishery according to Mr. Steve Yekel of the Game and Fish Department.

Flows in the river below Boysen Dam will fluctuate from 1265 cfs to 2265 cfs during the flushing flow. On May 10 at 9:00 p.m., the release of water from Boysen Dam will be increased to 2265 cfs for 10 hours before being reduced back to 1265 cfs at approximately 7:00 a.m. on May 11, 2012.

The public is urged to use caution during this period of fluctuation of flows below Boysen Dam.

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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.

Relevant Links:

Wyoming Area Office Home Page