The Wells Reservoir will be lowered around 8 feet from normal operating levels to 772-773 feet above sea level. The lowering will start Sunday, May 14th and is anticipated to last through May 20th.
In order to effectively remove sediment from the mouth of the Methow River, there needs to be sustained high flows which are forecasted to occur May 15-20. By lowering the Wells Reservoir the rock jetties installed on the left bank of the Methow River will be exposed and channel the fast moving water to scour out the accumulated sediment.
This low reservoir event is an ideal time to perform maintenance on docks or irrigation equipment in the dry.
Please note Cassimer Bar trails and shoreline will be closed during this time. Douglas PUD staff, fish and wildlife agency representatives, and local law enforcement will be patrolling for illegal activities such as artifact collecting and operating off-road vehicles below ordinary high water.
We believe this sediment removal event will benefit recreation and improve navigation in the lower Methow River.
