Army Corps updates water release schedule at Francis E. Walter Dam

USACE Philadelphia District
Published Aug. 31, 2020
The Francis E. Walter Dam has prevented more than $220 million in flood damages since its construction. It also supports recreation along the Lehigh River with planned fishing and whitewater rafting water releases.

The Francis E. Walter Dam has prevented more than $220 million in flood damages since its construction. It also supports recreation along the Lehigh River with planned fishing and whitewater rafting water releases.

The U.S. Army Corps Engineers’ Philadelphia District updated the 2020 Francis E. Walter Dam Flow Management Plan. 

The Army Corps updated the plan, which states whitewater and fisheries releases will be scheduled if enough water storage is accumulated in the reservoir. The following increments have been added to the schedule:

  • 9: Add fisheries enhancement water releases of 50 cubic feet per second from Sept. 19-Oct. 2 

Additionally, any other water storage accumulated between Aug. 31 and Columbus Day weekend will be used as part of the final increment (also known as “mega-release” detailed below) 

  • 10: Excess water may be released Friday, Oct. 9 to Monday,  Oct.12. The release rate and timeframes will be based on the amount of water available. Final scheduling will be determined by the Army Corps and posted by Wednesday, Oct. 7. 

Contact
Steve Rochette
Stephen.Rochette@usace.army.mil

Release no. 20-044