Posted on June 8, 2022
AHSAHKA, Idaho —Dworshak Dam is currently releasing approximately 9,600 cubic feet per second (cfs) and will continue to fill over the next 13 days. Releases are expected to increase to approximately 12,200 cfs starting the evening of June 9. Operations at Dworshak will change the height of the Clearwater River downstream of the dam by less than a foot, gradually, across a one-day period.
The change to release this week is due to Dworshak transitioning to final fill as the remaining snowpack melts. Dworshak is expected to reach full pool by June 20. When full pool is reached, releases will be tapered down as the natural runoff from snowmelt concludes. Releases will increase again when temperature control for flow augmentation is required in the lower snake system, which will occur in late June or early July.
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 total dissolved gas (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 (USGS) 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/.
