News Release Archive

Flows to Increase on the North Fork of the Payette River

Media Contact: John Redding, (208) 378-5212, jredding@pn.usbr.gov
Brian Sauer, bsauer@pn.usbr.gov

For Release: February 10, 2006

The Bureau of Reclamation will increase flow releases from Cascade Dam from the current flow rate of 200 cubic feet per second to 1,000 cfs starting February 13 and continuing through February 16. Cascade Dam is located on the North Fork of the Payette River near Payette, Idaho.

Releases are being increased to provide adequate reservoir space for the anticipated above normal spring runoff flows. The February 1 runoff forecast for the North Fork of the Payette River is currently 126 percent of normal.

"Those living or recreating around the Payette River are urged to exercise caution due to the possible dangers from high river flows," said Brian Sauer, Acting Water Operations Manager.

Cascade Dam, constructed in 1948, is a multipurpose facility with a hydroelectric power plant. Lake Cascade is a popular recreation site for tourists and residents in Idaho.

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