Release reduction to winter levels at Jamestown, Pipestem Dams

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will be stepping down releases from Jamestown and Pipestem Dams to expected winter levels by Dec. 4, 2019. 

Updated river ice forecasts indicate ice formation is likely in the LaMoure area in early December.  To mitigate the risk of freeze-up ice jams or other ice-related flooding, combined releases from the dams will be reduced by 200 cubic feet per second each day to expected winter levels.  The target combined release rate is 650 cfs.

The Corps of Engineers will operate to minimize the risk of ice-related flooding, and adjustments to the releases will be made as needed.

Jamestown Dam is currently at a pool elevation of 1441.3 feet, 28% into the flood pool, and is dropping.  The pool elevation peaked on Nov. 12 at 1442.0 feet, which was 31% into the flood pool.  Inflows are near 350 cfs, and releases are 1,100 cfs.

Pipestem Dam is currently at a pool elevation of 1464.2 feet, 24% into the flood pool, and is dropping.  The pool elevation peaked on Oct. 29 at 1475.0 feet, which was 43% into the flood pool.  Inflows are near 400 cfs, and releases are 1,100 cfs.

The Corps of Engineers is coordinating with relevant agencies in North and South Dakota.