Bighorn River flushing

The Bureau of Reclamation has scheduled a flushing flow in the Bighorn River downstream of Boysen Dam, according to Wyoming Area Manager, Carlie Ronca. This operation is at the request of, and in coordination with, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department.

“The purpose of the flushing flow is to improve trout reproduction by flushing fine sediments from spawning gravels in the river,” said Ronca. The flushing flow also improves insect production in the river by opening up interstitial spaces between gravels and cobbles. The flushing flow is generally welcomed by anglers because it provides easier wading conditions. Following the flushing flow there is a reduction in floating algae.

Flows in the river below Boysen Dam will fluctuate from 600 cfs to 5,000 cfs during the flushing flow. On Monday, March 21 at 2 a.m., the release of water from Boysen Dam will be increased to 3,000 cfs and further increased to 5,000 cfs at approximately 7 a.m. for 10 hours before being reduced gradually back to 600 cfs by approximately 10 a.m. on Tuesday, March 22.

The public is urged to use extreme caution during this period of rapid fluctuation of flows below Boysen Dam.