22-021 Dworshak Dam discharge to increase to support hatchery releases

WALLA WALLA DISTRICT U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS
Published April 8, 2022

AHSAHKA, Idaho –Dworshak Dam is currently discharging 7,100 cubic feet per second (cfs). Discharges will remain steady for the next week before increasing to 9,500 cfs to support local hatchery releases. Discharge for the remainder of the month, after hatchery releases are concluded, is expected to be in the approximate range of 8,000 to 10,500 cfs.

Operations to increase discharge to 9,500 cfs at Dworshak will occur simultaneously with decreasing natural flows, and are expected to result in the Clearwater River near Peck remaining at an approximately constant level, within half a foot.

The current operation will result in total dissolved gas (TDG) remaining below 110%. The Corps will continue to work with regional water managers, other agencies, tribes, and fish managers and hatcheries in joint efforts to meet reservoir objectives and keep TDG below the Idaho State maximum threshold of 110%, when possible.

The rate of change in downstream river stage limit of one foot per hour, as measured at the United States Geological Survey Clearwater River Near Peck, ID (gage #13341050), will not be violated due to project operations.

For safety, the public is advised to be aware of the danger associated with fluctuating river flows and elevations. The river at this time of year is deep, cold and fast, so extreme caution should be used near riverbanks. Boaters, anglers and other people using waterways both in Dworshak Reservoir and below the dam on the Clearwater River are advised to be alert to changes in water elevation and volume of flow. Current Dworshak water-management conditions can be viewed on the Walla Walla District website at https://www.nwd.usace.army.mil/CRWM/Water-Control-Data/Project-Data/.


Contact
cenww-pa
509-527-7020
cenww-pa@usace.army.mil

Release no. 22-021