Water releases for salmon on Lewis River lead to Yale Park boat ramp closure

ARIEL, Wash. — Despite recent rainfall across the Pacific Northwest, dry conditions continue to impact Pacific Power’s reservoirs on the Lewis River, resulting in a boat ramp closure this weekend.  

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission requires the Merwin hydroelectric project to release certain water flows to support adult salmon returning to the Lewis River. However, inflows have been lower than needed to meet flow requirements. PacifiCorp is now drawing down Yale Reservoir to help provide river flow. As a result, the Yale Park boat ramp will close on the evening of October 19 and remain closed indefinitely.  

PacifiCorp will notify the public once Yale reservoir returns to an elevation that allows safe use of the Yale Park boat ramp.  

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