Caution to boaters - Reservoir drawdowns to impact flows on McKenzie River

The Oregon State Maine Board and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers are alerting boaters to expect higher water levels due to drawdowns on Cougar and Blue River reservoirs that feed into the McKenzie River.

The Corps is reducing reservoir levels behind the dams to support maintenance and rehabilitation of the structures’ spillway gates.

Cougar Reservoir drawdown begins July 15, as water managers gradually increase daily water releases up to 500 cubic feet per second (cfs).  Another gradual increase begins Aug. 1, when water release will eventually reach 1,000 cfs.  Normal water release for this time of year is about 580 cfs. 

Water managers will also begin gradually increasing daily water releases at Blue River Reservoir, reaching about 500 cfs by Aug. 1. Normal daily release from the dam is about 300 cfs.

For the most up-to-date information, please view the Corps’ “Teacup” diagrams at http://www.nwd-wc.usace.army.mil/nwp/teacup/willamette/.

The cumulative effects of these increasing releases will result in significantly higher water flows and stronger currents on the McKenzie River.

Boaters can expect downed trees and other debris making navigation more difficult, so take early action to avoid being drawn into an obstruction.  Boaters, especially paddlers, are encouraged to plan ahead and visit www.boatoregon.com to learn where there have been reported navigation obstructions.  Boaters should always scout the river ahead of time and always keep a sharp lookout.