News Release Archive

Reclamation Warns of Potential Flow Increase in Rio Chama Tonight

Media Contact: Mary Perea Carlson, (505) 462-3576, mcarlson@usbr.gov

For Release: February 03, 2011

Flows in the Rio Chama below El Vado Reservoir could increase from 40 cubic feet per second to between 500 and 1000 cfs tonight if the County of Los Alamos deems the release necessary.The water would be released by the Bureau of Reclamation to allow Los Alamos County to generate more electricity in order to meet growing demands as the frigid weather conditions continue across New Mexico.

Reclamation officials would like to warn the public that these flows would be much higher than the average flow for this time of year. People should avoid activity on or near the river for the next 24 hours in case such a release is necessary.

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission-regulated hydroelectric plant that is owned and operated by Los Alamos County sits directly below El Vado Dam.

One cfs is the equivalent of one cubic foot of water passing a given point in a second.

# # #

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.