RIVERDALE, N.D. -- Garrison Dam releases are scheduled to be reduced in 1,000-cubic feet per second increments from its current release of 13,000 cfs to 10,000 cfs by April 9. Garrison releases have not been this low since April 2010. The reduced releases are in response to high runoff from melting plains snow into the downstream Missouri mainstem reservoirs - Oahe, Big Bend, Fort Randall and Gavins Point. To keep track of the scheduled release reductions, reference the regulation forecast on the Corps’ Missouri River Basin Water Management website:
http://www.nwd-mr.usace.army.mil/rcc/reports/twregfcast.pdf , which is updated several times a week.
Lower flows and stages can create new obstacles or challenges on the river. The public is encouraged to utilize the west 25 feet of the Downstream Tailrace boat ramp for access to the river, as this portion of the ramp extend the farthest into the river. The Corps stresses that it is important for visitors to the Garrison Project to take extra precautions during this time of lower releases. Precautions for preventing cold water immersion, hypothermia, and drowning include:
- Prevent falling overboard or capsizing boats. Do not overload boats and avoid heavy wave conditions. In all boats, but especially in small boats, avoid sudden movements and do NOT reach or hang over the side of the boat.
- Wear layers of clothing and wear proper clothing.
- Wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket.
- Do NOT boat, hunt or fish alone.
- Tell someone where you are planning to boat, hunt or fish; in case something happens, people know where to look for you.
- If you do fall into the water -- keep your airway clear, do NOT panic, and focus on controlling your breathing.
For reference, here are links to additional information regarding our operations:
- The "Daily River Bulletin" can be found at: http://www.nwd-mr.usace.army.mil/rcc/reports/pdfs/MRBWM_River_Daily.pdf
- The "Monthly Study" can be found at: http://www.nwd-mr.usace.army.mil/rcc/reports/resfcast.pdf
Release no. 19-013