News Release Archive

Shoreline Campers Visiting Lake Roosevelt Advised of Rising Water Levels

Media Contact: John Redding, (208) 378-5212, 06/27/2011 11:06
Lynne Brougher, lbrougher@usbr.gov

For Release: June 27, 2011

The Bureau of Reclamation is advising visitors planning to camp along the Lake Roosevelt shoreline over the July 4th weekend to be aware of potential dangers from rapidly rising lake levels. Lake Roosevelt is impounded by Grand Coulee Dam located on the Columbia River about 90 miles west of Spokane, Washington.

"When camping along the shoreline, we recommend that tents and other belongings be kept well away from the water's edge," said Lynne Brougher, Public Affairs Officer. "This year, the spring runoff was late, and, the lake is still filling."

On July 1, the lake level is anticipated to be approximately 1280 ft. Throughout the holiday weekend the lake could rise another 1 to 1 ½ feet per day. On the morning of July 5, campers should expect the lake elevation to be at 1285.

"While there will be plenty of exposed beaches for camping during the holiday weekend, visitors should be prepared for the lake level to rise over the weekend and plan accordingly," said Brougher.

Campsites too close to the water's edge could become flooded and boats should be anchored or tied securely to the shoreline to avoid having them drift out into the lake and become a safety hazard. Safety is priority one, and caution is always advised when boating and camping on the shoreline.

For further information concerning lake levels, contact the Bureau of Reclamation at (509) 633-9503 or visit: http://www.usbr.gov/pn/grandcoulee/lakelevel/index.html

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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.