MILLS, Wyo. – The Bureau of Reclamation will begin the annual filling of Alcova Reservoir on Tuesday, April 1. Recreationists and reservoir users are advised to take proper precautions associated with the rising reservoir level at Alcova.
During April, the reservoir will rise approximately 10 feet to the summer irrigation operating level. The rate of rise will average approximately five inches per day. Upon reaching the summer irrigation operating level, the reservoir will remain at elevation 5,498 feet plus or minus one foot until October 1. This increase in reservoir level will be completed by May 1 to allow deliveries to the Casper-Alcova Irrigation District canal.
Alcova Dam serves as a diversion dam to divert water into the Casper Canal, which is approximately 59 miles long and delivers irrigation water to approximately 24,000 acres near Casper, Wyoming. The lower operating level at Alcova Reservoir through the winter prevents ice damage to the canal diversion structure in the reservoir.
