Bighorn River flows increase

Flows in the Bighorn River were raised on Monday and Tuesday this week from 2,300 cubic feet/second to 6,000 cubic feet/second. The increase was done over a period of 48 hours with the final increase being Tuesday evening. Release from Boysen Reservoir increased to allow for addition inflows.

Signs have been put up at the five major boat launches along the Bighorn River.

According to Bill Gordon, Hot Springs County Emergency Management coordinator, “This flow will easily stay within the river banks but will be a dangerous flow for floaters, particularly those who may be inexperienced.”

He advises to keep children and pets away from the river bank. The fast flow and brush and Russian Olive trees are unforgiving. Gordon reminded those that float the river to wear Personal Floatation Devices.

Gordon also noted that the increased release flows from Boysen Dam and the events in Yellowstone Park and elsewhere as a result of disastrous thunderstorm rainfall are completely unrelated matters.