News Release Archive

Reclamation Changes Water Year Type For Klamath Basin

Media Contact: Jeffrey McCracken, 916-978-5100, jmccracken@mp.usbr.gov

For Release: June 13, 2003

Due to increased late Spring inflow into Upper Klamath Lake, Reclamation is changing its forecast for the 2003 water year from a "dry" water year to a "below average" water year. The Project will now be operated to track Upper Klamath Lake elevation levels and Iron Gate Dam releases for a below average water year type as per the final Biological Assessment (BA).

As of June 1, 2003, the inflow to the lake exceeded the National Resources Conservation Service's April forecast of 290,000 acre-feet. The projected inflow for the remaining water year, added to the inflows already received, results in 324,700 acre-feet of total projected inflow. In addition, dam releases will include water from a 50,000 acre-foot water bank to bolster flows in the Klamath River in support of endangered and native fish species downstream.

For additional information, contact Reclamation's Public Affairs Office at 916-978-5100 (TDD 916-978-5608).

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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.