The Bureau of Reclamation and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers are again increasing flows from Lucky Peak Dam because of above-normal winter precipitation in the Boise River drainage. Beginning March 6, flows through the City of Boise will increase incrementally 250 cubic feet per second (cfs) per day to reach approximately 7,000 cfs, which is flood stage, on Tuesday, March 7. These releases are necessary to help reduce the risk of increased flooding later in the spring, which can happen with rapidly melting snow and seasonal precipitation.
Boise River reservoirs are at approximately 57 percent of capacity. Additional flow increases are possible in the coming weeks, depending on weather conditions. A full supply of irrigation water is anticipated this summer.
A flow rate of 7,000 cfs is considered flood-stage level at the Glenwood Bridge gauge. Some sections of the Greenbelt Trail adjacent to the river will be submerged. Erosion of river banks may become a problem. Minor flooding may be observed on sections of Eagle Island and in other low spots near the river.
Officials are advising the public to be aware of the danger associated with increased Boise River flows. The water is deep, cold, and fast, so if possible, activity near the river banks should be avoided.
People can view real-time data of flows at Reclamation facilities in the Pacific Northwest Region at https://www.usbr.gov/pn/hydromet/rtindex/boise.html.
Source: Bureau of Reclamation
