News Release Archive

Alcova Reservoir Water Level to Rise

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

For Release: March 17, 2014

Mills, Wyo. -- The annual filling of Alcova Reservoir will begin on Thursday, Mar. 27, according to Wyoming Area Manager, Coleman W. Smith.

At the request of Natrona County Parks and Recreation, the Bureau of Reclamation lowered the level of Alcova Reservoir this winter an additional 5 feet below the normal winter operating range in order to facilitate Natrona County's construction of a new boat ramp at the Okie Beach recreation area. Since early January 2014, the reservoir has been held at this lower elevation, which is 5483 ± 1 foot.

From March 27 through the end of April, the reservoir will rise approximately 15 feet to the summer irrigation operating level. The rate of rise will average approximately six inches per day. Upon reaching the summer irrigation operating level, the reservoir will remain at elevation 5498 plus or minus one foot until October 1. "This increase in reservoir level will be completed by May 1 to allow deliveries to the Casper-Alcova Irrigation District Canal," Smith said.

Recreationists and reservoir users are advised to take proper precautions associated with the rising reservoir level.

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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.

Relevant Link:

Wyoming Area Office Home Page