News Release Archive

Reclamation to Lower Lake Moovalya About One Foot Late December Through Mid-January

Media Contact: Rose Davis , 702-293-8421 , jdavis@usbr.gov
River Operations Center, 702-293-8373, waterops@usbr.gov

For Release: December 17, 2010

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 three-week period beginning late this month.

The drawdown is scheduled to begin early Wednesday morning, December 29, 2010. 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's projected refill date is Tuesday, January 18, 2011; 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.