Reclamation conducts emergency pulse flow release from Whiskeytown Dam

The Bureau of Reclamation, NOAA Fisheries, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service have begun emergency pulse flow releases from Whiskeytown Dam into Clear Creek to benefit spring-run Chinook salmon. Flow releases will began June 20 and reach a peak of 500 cubic feet per second June 22. Flow releases will be reduced to 150 cfs by June 24.

Pulse flows are rapid increases in dam-released flows occurring over a short time frame. During pulse flows, water levels are higher and currents are faster. Visitors should use caution when near or on Clear Creek during the pulse flow period.

The emergency pulse flow aims to encourage threatened Central Valley spring-run Chinook salmon to move upstream to take advantage of cooler summer water temperatures and more suitable habitat.

This pulse flow requires no additional stored water beyond normal operations. Reclamation and partner agencies coordinated this operational adjustment by reducing base flow in preparation for this pulse flow release when most needed by spring-run Chinook salmon.

For more information, contact Derek Rupert, Bureau of Reclamation, at 530-247-8514 or [email protected].