Low water levels on Lewis River lead to additional boat ramp closure

ARIEL, Wash. — Dry conditions across the Pacific Northwest continue to impact PacifiCorp's reservoirs on the Lewis River. Currently, water inflow to Swift, Yale and Merwin reservoirs is about 66% of normal levels for this time of year. As a result, Merwin Reservoir will be drawn down to lower water levels.

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, which regulates the operation of PacifiCorp’s reservoirs, requires the company to maintain minimum water flows downstream of Merwin Dam to protect and support federally listed fish species. With these requirements and under dry conditions, PacifiCorp has distributed available water between the three reservoirs.

To meet the September license flow requirement from Merwin Dam, and to maintain availability of the Swift Forest Camp boat ramp to support the replacement of a fish barrier, Merwin Reservoir will need to be drawn down to lower-than-normal elevations.

Because of the lower water levels, the Speelyai Park boat ramp will be closed beginning September 15, 2025. However, the Cresap Bay Park boat ramp will remain open and available through September 30, 2025, providing boaters with continued access to Merwin Reservoir.

Additionally, the Swift Forest Camp boat ramp will be closed starting September 30 to allow for the drawdown of Swift Reservoir in order to refill Merwin Reservoir. The Speelyai Park boat ramp will reopen as soon as the Merwin reservoir reaches an elevation of 227 feet.

We understand the inconvenience that the reservoir drawdowns and boat ramp closures may cause. PacifiCorp will notify the public of any changes from the above schedule should conditions change. 

Check the website to learn more about notifications regarding boat launch closures and other low water impacts.