NORTHERN CALIFORNIA – Due to forecast storms in the Feather River basin, the California Department of Water Resources has taken steps to prepare for use of the main Oroville Dam spillway.
DWR anticipates use of the spillway for the first time since it has been reconstructed on Tuesday, April 2.
“DWR has restored full functionality to the Oroville main spillway and is operating the reservoir to ensure public safety of those downstream,” said DWR State Water Project Deputy Director Joel Ledesma. “The Oroville main spillway was designed and constructed using 21st century engineering practices and under the oversight and guidance from state and federal regulators and independent experts.”
Officials said the Oroville Reservoir level was at 853 feet. The anticipated main spillway releases are expected to be between 10,000 cubic-feet per second, or cfs, and 20,000 cfs. The
anticipated total releases to the Feather River will be up to 30,000 cfs from Oroville facilities and other natural inflows.
DWR may increase releases to the Feather River again later this week to between 40,000 and 60,000 cfs to prepare for forecasted inflows.
The main spillway and the emergency spillway are reconstructed and able to handle flows as needed to manage reservoir levels and provide flood protection for the surrounding communities. Public safety and flood protection are DWR’s top priority in operational decisions regarding Oroville reservoir.
Oro Dam Boulevard East will be open to pedestrian and vehicle traffic unless flows from the main spillway exceed 30,000 cfs. If spillway flows exceed 30,000 cfs, the road will be closed to ensure public safety.
DWR has followed its standard process of notifying regulatory agencies, local maintaining agencies, local law enforcement and local elected officials regarding the anticipated use.
State: Department of Water Resources plans to use Oroville Dam main spillway
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