Energy Keepers, Inc.

4 weeks ago

Streamflow conditions in the Flathead Basin remain below normal and similar to 2023 and 2024 and the SKQ Project is being operated to increase the likelihood of meeting refill and minimum instream flow requirements (see SKQ’s drought management plan). January was incredibly dry in the basin and snowpack in the Northfork of the Flathead is low. However, there are still snow building months ahead.

Both weather and streamflows are highly uncertain. A warm and rainy event can rapidly increase streamflows in the spring, and similarly a cold and dry event can keep the streamflows quite low compared to normal. Temperatures, precipitation, and snowpack conditions such as density, all play a part in determining how high or low stream flows move as well as the timing of the runoff. If an early runoff is detected, EKI will coordinate flood risk management deviations with the USACE as needed to refill the lake.

SKQ Project outflows and the Flathead Lake elevation are dependent on many variables including lake inflows, weather, the demand for electricity, and non-power constraints such as the downstream fishery and flood risk management needs. ... See MoreSee Less

Energy Keepers, Inc.

5 months ago

Over the coming weeks Flathead Lake's elevation will be slowly reduced to approximately 2891' by the end of October. The lake level is typically reduced in the fall to mitigate the impacts of wave action on shoreline erosion. Full pool is 2893.

For those who walk the SKQ Dam Overlook Vista steps in Polson: Please be aware that the trail follows a standardized schedule each year. It will close on October 15th, with gates locked for the season, and will reopen on April 15th in the spring. Please plan your visits accordingly. ... See MoreSee Less