Operations Update
A monthly report of project operations and Flathead Lake Levels
Se̓liš Ksanka Ql̓ispe̓ Hydroelectric Project Operation for Flathead Lake
Representatives from Energy Keepers, Inc. (“EKI”), NorthWestern Energy (“NWE”), U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (“Corps”), the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes (“CSKT’), and Bureau of Indian Affairs conferred on February 23, 2016 regarding current and projected operation of the Seli’š Ksanka Qlispe (formerly Kerr) Project. The current outflow is about 9,370 cubic feet per second (cfs) and the lake elevation, as of March 1st at midnight was 2,885.1 feet.
In February, the natural stream flow averaged 130% of median and 117% of average (historical data from 1981-2010). Precipitation accumulation was .92 inches; .72 inches is normal in February for the Flathead Basin. New snow in February was 3 inches; 3.6 inches is normal for February. March natural inflow forecast is 110% of average. EKI estimates that the average outflow will be approximately 7,700 cfs through March targeting 2883’ by April 15th as per the Memorandum of Understanding with the Army Corps. of Engineers on flood control operations. Refill operations will commence shortly thereafter targeting 2890.0’ by May 31st.
The conveyance of the Kerr Project to CSKT was closed effective 12:00:01 A.M. on September 5, 2015. EKI is a Tribally-owned corporation with which CSKT has delegated the authority and responsibility to manage, operate and maintain the (formerly Kerr) Se̓liš Ksanka Ql̓ispe̓ Project on behalf of CSKT.
Further questions and comments can be directed to:
Emily Corrigan | Energy Keepers, Inc.
Asset Optimization Manager
110 Main Street, Suite 304
Polson, MT 59860
info@energykeepersinc.com
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