AHSAHKA, Idaho -- Dworshak Dam releases will increase from 3,200 cubic feet per second (cfs) on Thursday, June 26, to 10,000 cfs by Sunday, June 29, for flow augmentation.
As river temperatures increase in the summer months, cooling water from Dworshak Reservoir is released to increase fish survival by moderating river temperatures and flows in the Snake River. This is referred to as flow augmentation.
Starting the evening of Thursday, June 26, at 7 p.m., each day through Sunday, June 29, releases will increase by approximately 2,000 cfs per day to a target of 10,000 cfs. Releases will be monitored to meet downstream temperature requirements as needed throughout the remainder of summer.
Dworshak Reservoir is currently at its full pool of 1,600 feet. As releases increase for flow augmentation, the reservoir elevation will begin a steady drop. The reservoir will be approximately 5 to 10 feet below full pool through the Fourth of July weekend.
For safety, the public is advised to be aware of the danger associated with fluctuating river flows and elevations. 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. Additionally, docks may be out of place at boat ramps based on USACE personnel’s ability to respond.
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/.
Release no. 25-027