2008 High-Flow Experiment from Glen Canyon Dam
Interior Secretary Kempthorne Launches Grand Canyon High-Flow Experiment
The Department of the Interior initiated an experiment in March 2008 to inform managers about the effectiveness of using high flows from Glen Canyon Dam to improve natural, recreational, and cultural resources in Grand Canyon National Park. Flows from the dam began increasing on the evening on March 4, with powerplant bypass flows beginning at approximately 10 AM on the morning of March 5. Water was released through Glen Canyon Dam's powerplant and bypass tubes to a maximum amount of approximately 41,500 cubic feet per second for about 60 hours.
The U.S. Geological Survey's Grand Canyon Monitoring and Research Center worked collaboratively with the Department of the Interior's Bureau of Reclamation, National Park Service, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to prepare for and conduct the 2008 high-flow release. These agencies as well as the Arizona Game and Fish Department, Northern Arizona University, Utah State University, and other cooperators will work together to conduct and evaluate a range of research activities. Field research related to high flows will continue through the fall of 2008, and initial formal reports are anticipated to be available in late 2008 and 2009.
This Web site will be regularly updated. Today, see time-lapse videos of two sandbars before, during, and after the high flows. Matched photographs are also available.
General information: (928) 556-7217 or nbryant@usgs.gov