News Release Archive

Reclamation reduces duration of Guernsey silt run

Media Contact: Shane Hayden, 307-261-5647, shayden@usbr.gov

For Release: July 18, 2019

MILLS, Wyoming--The Bureau of Reclamation will be refilling Guernsey Reservoir a week sooner than originally planned, following the annual silt run. Boaters, recreationists and irrigators should take proper precautions regarding changing river flows below Glendo and Guernsey Reservoirs and the rapid refilling of Guernsey Reservoir.

The silt run is an operation that provides silt-laden water to Goshen, Gering-Fort Laramie and Pathfinder Irrigation Districts under contract with Reclamation.

The silt run began on July 12 and was originally expected to continue through July 25. The irrigation districts requested the silt run be terminated early this year, prompting the change in schedule.

Beginning on the late morning of July 18, the release of water from Glendo Reservoir will be rapidly increased to refill Guernsey Reservoir. The level of Guernsey Reservoir is expected to be suitable for boating again by the morning of July 20. However, the reservoir will continue to rise by approximately 6 feet per day and is expected to reach the normal reservoir operation level by the evening of Monday, July 22.

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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