News Release Archive

Nelson Dikes Safety of Dams Modifications Update

Media Contact: Jack Conner, (406) 247-7300, jconner@usbr.gov

For Release: July 19, 2016

BILLINGS, Mont. -- The Contractor selected to complete the Nelson Dikes Safety of Dams Modifications, Johnson-Wilson Constructors, Inc., has mobilized to the Nelson Dikes construction area. Site preparatory work and the installation of dewatering wells has begun.

Reservoir drawdown operations began in late June and the reservoir is expected to be near an elevation of 2212.0 by the end of July. The reservoir will continue to be drawn down until the target elevation of 2205.0 feet is reached. This low reservoir restriction will remain in place until at least October 15, 2016. Refilling the reservoir is expected to occur in the spring of 2017, and will depend upon available water supplies.

Temporary road closures around the dikes are not anticipated at this time. The North Nelson boat ramp will become unusable below reservoir elevation 2216.0 ft. All other boat ramps will remain open at Nelson Reservoir.

An Environmental Assessment (EA) for the modification has been finalized and a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) has been signed. The public can access the final EA and FONSI on Reclamation's website at www.usbr.gov/gp/mtao/nelson/.

For additional information or questions, please call 406-247-7300.

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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:

Montana Area Office Home Page