News Release Archive

Fluctuation of Bighorn River Flow Downstream of Boysen Dam

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

For Release: March 18, 2014

Mills, Wyo. -- The Bureau of Reclamation, at the request of, and in collaboration with the Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGF), has scheduled a flushing flow in the Big Horn River downstream of Boysen Dam, according to Wyoming Area Manager, Coleman Smith.

The purpose of the flushing flow is to improve trout reproduction by flushing fine sediments from spawning gravels in the river. The flushing flow also improves insect production in the stream by opening up interstitial spaces between gravels and cobbles. The flushing flow is generally welcomed by anglers because it provides easier wading conditions. Following the flushing flow there is a reduction in floating algae.

Flows in the river below Boysen Dam will fluctuate from 475 cfs to 5000 cfs during the flushing flow. On March 25 at 10:00 p.m., the release of water from Boysen Dam will be increased to 1000 cfs. On March 26 at 2:00 a.m., the release will be increased to 2300 cfs and further increased to 5000 cfs at approximately 7:00 a.m. for 10 hours before being gradually reduced to 1000 cfs by approximately 4:00 a.m. on March 27, 2014. The flushing flow is subject to being rescheduled or cancelled depending on river conditions.

The public is urged to use extreme caution during this period of rapid fluctuation of flows below Boysen Dam.

# # #

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