Changes made to dam releases

Changes were made to the releases of the Jamestown and Pipestem dams Friday. While the total combined releases remain at 1,800 cubic feet per second the amount from each dam was adjusted.

Releases at Pipestem Dam were increased to 1,000 cfs from the previous level of 900 cfs. Releases at Jamestown Dam were decreased to 800 cfs for a total of 1,800 cfs.

The Jamestown Dam is currently at an elevation of 1,443 feet down about 8 feet since May 1. Levels at Jamestown Dam must be lowered 12 feet before winter to reach conservation pool levels.

Pipestem Dam is at an elevation of 1,482 feet down about 5 feet from the peak reached on May 25. Levels at the Pipestem must be lowered about 39 feet before winter to reach conservation pool levels.

The combined releases of 1,800 cfs are expected to remain in effect until the end of July although release schedules can still be affected by weather.

Sun reporter Keith Norman can be reached at (701) 952-8452 or by e-mail at knorman@jamestownsun.com

Tags: james river, news, dam, releases