POST FALLS, Idaho – Avista Utilities announced it will reduce the amount of water released from the Post Falls Dam due to continued hot and dry weather across the Inland Northwest.
The Post Falls Hydroelectric Development will begin releasing the minimum of 500 cubic feet of water per second either this weekend or early next week.
Avista said this will help balance and maintain water levels in Coeur d’Alene Lake and keep water in the Spokane River through the end of summer.
“Water use by people directly affects river flows. That’s why we hope people will use water wisely and efficiently,” said Patrick Cabbage, senior hydrogeologist for Ecology’s Easter Region Water Resources Program. “Fix a leak, don’t water the sidewalk, and pay attention to how much you irrigate. It matters.”
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission requires Avista to consider impacts on fisheries, water quality and public recreation when making decisions about operations at the Post Falls HED.
As of the latest update, water levels at Coeur d’Alene Lake and Lake Spokane are at the normal summer level.