Click the link to read the article on the Steamboat Pilot & Today website (Suzie Romig). Here’s an excerpt:
Last year, Elkhead Reservoir operators carefully managed the reservoir that straddles the Routt and Moffat countyline due to low water issues, but this year reservoir managers are facing challenges due to high water from abundant snowmelt in the Yampa Valley. Managers predict Elkhead Reservoir will top its spillway in mid-May with water exiting the spillway and outflow at a combined rate of about 2,000 cubic feet per second, or cfs, or about the same level of peak water as in wet 2011, said Don Meyer, senior water resources engineer with the Colorado River Water Conservation District based in Glenwood Springs.
“The current outflow is about 550 cfs with valves 100% open,” Meyer said. “When (the reservoir is) full, the release will be 590 cfs. When spilling, we will likely keep the outlet discharge at 590 cfs, and the rest will go over the spillway.”
Meyer, who has managed Elkhead Reservoir releases since 2007, said high water flows in 2011 recorded 1,800 cfs on May 8 and more than 2,000 cfs on May 16, May 24 and June 4. He expects 2023 spillage will follow a similar path…
The watershed upstream of Elkhead Reservoir drains a 205-square-mile basin, according to the river district that owns or controls water supplies that are available for contract to agricultural, municipal, industrial and other water users.
I came across your recent blog post titled “Elkhead Reservoir Expected to Top Spillway Again This Year: Similar to 2011, Streambank Erosion Expected in Lower Elkhead Creek” and found it to be an informative read.
It’s interesting to learn about the expected water levels at Elkhead Reservoir and the potential impact on streambank erosion in Lower Elkhead Creek. Monitoring and understanding these natural processes are crucial for managing water resources and mitigating potential risks.
The comparison to the 2011 event provides valuable context and highlights the importance of preparedness and proactive measures to address the challenges associated with increased water levels and potential erosion.
The article prompts reflection on the importance of sustainable water management practices and the need to strike a balance between water storage and environmental considerations. It’s encouraging to see the efforts being made to engage stakeholders, such as the Yampa Valley Stream Improvement Charitable Trust, to address streambank erosion and implement restoration projects.
By bringing attention to these issues, your blog post raises awareness and fosters a deeper understanding of the complex interactions between water resources, reservoirs, and ecosystems. It serves as a reminder of the need for ongoing research, collaboration, and adaptive management to ensure the long-term health and resilience of our waterways.
Thank you for sharing this insightful update on Elkhead Reservoir and Lower Elkhead Creek. I appreciate the work you do in keeping your readers informed about water-related issues, and I look forward to reading more thought-provoking posts from Coyote Gulch.