News Release Archive

Reclamation Announces Higher than Normal Winter Flows Downstream of Boysen and Buffalo Bill Dams

Media Contact: Mahonri Williams, (307) 261-5624, mlwilliams@usbr.gov

For Release: December 18, 2017

MILLS, Wyo. -- The Bureau of Reclamation will be releasing higher than normal flows in the Wind and Bighorn Rivers downstream of Boysen Dam and also in the Shoshone River below Buffalo Bill Dam.

Fall reservoir storage has been very good following the record spring reservoir inflows this year into both Boysen and Buffalo Bill Reservoirs. In addition, the fall inflows to the reservoirs have been the highest in the last thirty years. As a result, the reservoir releases from both reservoirs will be higher than normal for the winter months. The release from Boysen Reservoir to the Wind River will be approximately 1,250 cubic feet per second (cfs) for the winter months, which is about 300 cfs above normal. On December 20, the release from Buffalo Bill Reservoir to the Shoshone River is expected to be set at approximately 500 cfs, which is about 150 cfs above normal, and remain at that flow for the winter months.

"These water operations are needed to manage reservoir levels and will have the added benefit of increased power generation, while still appropriately managing for this coming season’s irrigation water supply," said Wyoming Area Manager, Carlie Ronca.

Reservoir releases will be adjusted as necessary in the spring depending on updated spring inflow forecasts.

For more information, please contact Mahonri Williams, at 307-261-5624, or mlwilliams@usbr.gov.

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The Bureau of Reclamation is a federal agency under the U.S. Department of the Interior and is the nation's largest wholesale water supplier and second largest producer of hydroelectric power. Our facilities also provide substantial flood control, recreation opportunities, and environmental benefits. Visit our website at https://www.usbr.gov and follow us on Twitter @USBR; Facebook @bureau.of.reclamation; LinkedIn @Bureau of Reclamation; Instagram @bureau_of_reclamation; and YouTube @reclamation.

Relevant Link:

Wyoming Area Office Home Page