News Release Archive

Fluctuation of Bighorn River Flow Downstream of Boysen Dam

Media Contact: Carlie Ronca, (307) 261-5671, cronca@usbr.gov

For Release: March 12, 2015

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, Carlie Ronca.

"The purpose of the flushing flow is to improve trout reproduction by flushing fine sediments from spawning gravels in the river," Ronca said. 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 925 cfs to 5000 cfs during the flushing flow. On Mar. 24 at 2:00 a.m., the release of water from Boysen Dam will be increased to 3000 cfs and further increased to 5000 cfs at approximately 7:00 a.m. for 10 hours before being reduced gradually back to 925 cfs by approximately 11:00 a.m. on Mar. 25, 2015. The schedule may be modified depending on river ice conditions.

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

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Relevant Link:

Wyoming Area Office Home Page