YANKTON, S.D. – Anglers in the area for paddlefish snagging season will have some short disruptions due to spillway gate maintenance at Gavins Point Dam through October 16. The maintenance will require water to flow from a single gate several times a day for 10-15 minutes at a time. The gates will vary daily. In addition, beginning October 19, work on generators will create the need to open spillway gates to maintain water flow to the Missouri River. During the generator maintenance, which includes replacing seals and upgrading an electronic control, the spillway gates will remain open 24 hours a day.
During the gate inspections, which will take place each week Monday – Thursday, the disruption to anglers below the spillway will be minimal. Though the gates will only be opened 10-15 minutes at a time and only enough to flush mud and debris from the gate, the water conditions below the open gate will be hazardous. During spillway flows, all vessels are required to move away from the gate that is opening and spilling water.
Beginning October 19, when upgrades are scheduled for generators, multiple spillway gates will remain open 24 hours a day. This will likely continue through December. During this period, ALL vessels will be required to stay downstream of the restriction signs located on the north and south shoreline of the Missouri River.
Remember, your safety is OUR concern, but YOUR responsibility. Play it safe on the river during paddlefish season.
People can stay informed by checking our web site, www.nwo.usace.army.mil/gavinspoint or by calling (402) 667-2546. You can also follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/USACEGavins/
Release no. 21-008