Corps Takes Drought Conservation Measures

| 9/7/2012

Because of drought conditions in the Missouri River basin, the Corps of Engineers is reporting reduced inflows to the six Missouri River Mainstem reservoirs.

"During August, runoff in the upper basin was significantly below normal, especially in the reach between the Fort Peck and Garrison dams where it was only 46 percent of normal," said Jody Farhat, Chief of the Missouri Water Management Division.

The Corps says that with the exception of a few areas, the majority of the upper basin had less than 50 percent of normal precipitation in August.

"Drought conservation measures will be implemented beginning this winter based on the Sept. 1 storage check," said Farhat."Winter releases from Gavins Point will be at minimum levels, averaging near 12,000 cfs from December through February. Temporary increases above 12,000 cfs will be provided during periods of ice formation to keep water intakes along the lower river operational."

To meet levels for navigation on the river, the Corps says that reservoir releases have been above normal.

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