Fontenelle Dam Operation Plan Update

2.14.2017

Yesterday, I spoke with the person in charge of the Fontenelle Dam operation with the Bureau of Reclamation. He reported that there is a ton of snow above the reservoir and it will be quite difficult to project the exact operational plan until the ice begins to thaw. See the map below.

Wyoming Snowpack 2.14.2017

Once this happens, they will release plans as they become known and most certainly the plan will change multiple times. The MOST IMPORTANT aspect to keep in mind is, the operation is a reaction of what the weather is and subsequently how/when the snow melts. And that changes daily and sometimes hourly.

Currently here’s the latest from the BOR “Fontenelle Reservoir – Fontenelle Reservoir is currently at elevation 6,483 feet above sea level (feet), which amounts to 53 percent of live storage capacity. Inflows for the month of January totaled 44,600 acre-feet (af), or 148 percent of average. Average to above average inflows are forecasted over the next few months and releases have been increased in order to meet the spring elevation target. Releases have been set to base flow levels of 1,025 cubic feet per second (cfs) and are forecasted to remain at this level through the winter. Flows are anticipated to increase to 1,750 cfs on March 1, 2017 or whenever downstream icing threats have passed.”

Based on this information, Reel Deal is planning to operate and offer guided fishing trips this spring and summer above and below the Fontenelle Reservoir. Please keep in mind we guide from the Green River lakes up to the boundary of and below the Seedskadee NWR. This spring we will operate on a game time decision basis so PLEASE keep in mind that we DO NOT charge deposits for our spring trips so there is virtually NO RISK to our clients. If we feel the conditions are favorable, then we’ll go and if not, then we’ll either figure out another location or try again the next day.

One really positive thing to remember during big water years, the river corridors get flushed out and this is very good from a longterm, ecology standpoint for the riparian area. In other words EVERYONE and EVERYTHING benefits long term.

Our mainstay of operation will be from late June through October and we would like to remind everyone of our new mobile riverside camping option. If you’re looking to get your fish on then this is the program for you! Regardless of your plans, please give us a call at 307-413-0669 or email [email protected]. We look forward to getting you out for a great experience on the the water!