Spillway Modification Project
LAKE McCLURE STORAGE ENHANCEMENT
MID has been working on the New Exchequer Spillway Modification Project Enhancement for several years. Lake McClure has a water storage capacity of approximately 1,025,000 acre feet of water. The project would raise the spillways of New Exchequer Dam, allowing for up to an additional 57,000 acre feet of carryover water storage. Congressional legislation in recent years has helped MID reach a major milestone in the effort to help move the project forward.
The legislation allowed the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to accept non-federal funding to pay for the review of water infrastructure projects which improve storm-water capture. A second provision authorizes the Army Corps of Engineers to prioritize a review of reservoir operations manuals in drought states upon request of the governor. Significant work remains.
Among the benefits of expanding Lake McClure’s storage:
- Capturing storm water for beneficial use in dry years
- Enhanced flood protection
- Increased recreation opportunities
- Potential for local groundwater recharge
- Increased production of clean hydroelectric energy
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