News Release Archive

Fluctuation of Bighorn River Flow Downstream of Boysen Dam

Media Contact: Coleman W. Smith, Jr., (307) 261-5671, cwsmith@usbr.gov

For Release: June 26, 2012

MILLS, Wyo. -- The Bureau of Reclamation, at the request of irrigation districts below Boysen Dam, has scheduled a flushing flow for the Big Horn River downstream of Boysen Dam, according to Wyoming Area Manager, Coleman Smith, Jr.

Smith said he urges the public to use caution during this period of fluctuating flows below Boysen Dam. "We want to ensure people in the vicinity of Big Horn River are aware that there will be increased flows, and take appropriate precautions during this period," he said.

The purpose of the increased flow is to flush floating algae that is clogging irrigation intakes and delivery systems on the Bighorn River. The small fluctuation in the release from Boysen Dam has been coordinated with the Wyoming Game and Fish Department and is not anticipated to affect the river fishery.

Flows in the river below Boysen Dam will fluctuate from approximately 1,300 cfs to approximately 2,300 cfs during the flushing flow. On July 2, at 9 p.m., the release of water from Boysen Dam will be increased to approximately 2,300 cfs for 10 hours before being reduced back to approximately 1,300 cfs at 7 a.m. on July 3.

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Relevant Link:

Wyoming Area Office Home Page