News Release Archive

Reclamation Advises Public of Recreation Limitations at Lake Berryessa Due to Lake Level Rise

Media Contact: Russ Grimes, 916-978-5100, rwgrimes@usbr.gov

For Release: February 23, 2017

NAPA, Calif.– The Bureau of Reclamation announces that Lake Berryessa behind Monticello Dam has exceeded the Morning Glory Spillway crest of 440 feet of elevation. Recent precipitation and runoff have brought the reservoir above the 440-foot elevation mark causing increased flows to lower Putah Creek through the spillway.

Visitors are encouraged to use caution in and around the reservoir during this time. Please think “SAFETY FIRST.” Increased interest in the Morning Glory Spillway has generated traffic congestion along State Route 128 in the vicinity of Monticello Dam. Visitors are advised to use caution when approaching Monticello Dam and on roadways around the reservoir. Boaters should use caution as floating and subsurface hazards exist throughout the reservoir.

Due to high water levels, some recreation services are currently limited or not available. Capell Cove Boat Launch is currently closed and will reopen once water levels recede to allow for safe launching. Courtesy docks at Putah Canyon Recreation Area and Steele Canyon Recreation Area have been removed due to high water and will be positioned again once water levels recede. Boat launching is currently available at all concession sites; however, it is recommended that visitors call ahead for current information and conditions. Most concession areas and recreation areas are experiencing some reduction in services related to the high water. Visitors are encouraged to contact concession operators or the Lake Berryessa Field Office before visiting the lake for up-to-date information.

For more information, please contact the Lake Berryessa Field Office at 707-966-2111 ext. 0 or visit the Lake Berryessa website at https://www.usbr.gov/mp/ccao/berryessa/ .

Lake Berryessa concession area contact information:

Markley Cove , 707-966-2134,www.markleycoveresort.com

Pleasure Cove Marina , 707-966-9600, www.goberryessa.com

Steele Canyon Recreation Area , 707-966-9179, www.goberryessa.com

Spanish Flat Recreation Area , 707-966-0200, www.spanishflatcamping.com

Putah Canyon Recreation Area , 707-966-9051, www.royalelkparkmanagement.com

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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.