News Release Archive

Reclamation to Lower Lake Moovalya About One Foot First Two Weeks in January

Media Contact: Robert Walsh , 702-293-8421 , rwalsh@lc.usbr.gov
River Operations Center, 702-293-8373, waterops@lc.usbr.gov

For Release: December 18, 2009

The Bureau of Reclamation will lower Lake Moovalya, the small body of water impounded behind Headgate Rock Dam north of Parker, Arizona, by approximately one foot in elevation for a two-week period in January 2010.

The drawdown is scheduled to begin Monday, January 4, at 7:30 a.m. Mountain Standard Time (MST). The one-foot drop should be completed by 11:00 a.m. MST, but if unfavorable conditions are encountered, the drawdown time could be extended.

During the drawdown, Lake Moovalya will be maintained at approximately elevation 363.40 feet; it is normally at elevation 364.40 feet.

The lake is expected to return to normal by early morning on Thursday, January 14; however, a return to normal elevation may occur sooner or later than this expected date.

The temporary drawdown is expected to have only minimal impacts on releases from Parker Dam and will not affect 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.

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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.