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News Release Archive
May Outlook for Tiber and Canyon Ferry Reservoirs
Media Contact:
Paula A. Holwegner, (406) 247-7300, pholwegner@usbr.gov
Tyler Johnson, tjohnson@usbr.gov
For Release: May 05, 2011
BILLINGS, MONT. -- Snow pack in the Missouri River Basin above Canyon Ferry Reservoir has increased to 135 percent of normal for this time of year, and the snow pack in Marias River Basin above Tiber Reservoir (Lake Elwell) has increased to over 155 percent. Releases from both Canyon Ferry and Tiber dams have been increased recently to provide more storage during the forthcoming runoff, which is expected to begin around mid-May. During the month of May, river-based recreationists can expect to see high flows downstream from both dams, while flat-water recreationists can expect to find low reservoir levels at both locations. Hydrologic conditions are being monitored and evaluated daily, and operations continue to be adjusted accordingly.
Canyon Ferry: The reservoir elevation is currently at 3779 feet, leaving most boat ramps out of the water at this time. However, increased inflows are anticipated during the next two weeks which should allow the reservoir to fill to an elevation sufficient for safe launching at most ramps by mid-month.
Boaters using the ramp at Broadwater Bay near Silos Campground are cautioned to be aware of shallow-water conditions at the mouth of the bay, particularly during periods when the reservoir elevation is low but the ramp is still fully accessible.
Tiber: The reservoir elevation is currently at 2984 feet, and the reservoir will continue to be drafted over the next few weeks. A low reservoir elevation of approximately 2982 feet is projected to be reached towards the end of May, after which time the reservoir will begin to refill.
Water elevations and boat ramp status at both reservoirs can be viewed at: http://www.usbr.gov/gp/boat/index.cfm
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