Posted on July 20, 2021
COVINGTON, Va. – Gathright Dam operators are scheduled to conduct the year’s first water-pulse release from Lake Moomaw on Wednesday, July 21.
The pulse release, conducted by Norfolk District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in coordination with the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality and Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources, will occur about 6 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
At its peak, the dam will release 3,500 cubic feet per second and increase Jackson River water levels 3 to 4.5 feet.
People who use the river are advised to be aware of fluctuations caused by the pulses, agency officials said.
Remaining pulse dates for 2021 are set for the following Wednesdays:
Aug. 11
Sept. 1
Sept. 22
Oct. 13
Dates are subject to change based on weather conditions and rainfall.
For Gathright Dam schedule changes and release updates, refer to www.nao-wc.usace.army.mil/nao/projected_Q.html.
Pulse releases, which began in 2011, are designed to improve aquatic habitat and water quality in the Lower Jackson River. Monitoring data has shown the increased flow scours excess algae from downstream aquatic habitat and strengthens the river’s health.
