For Release: 02/27/2017
Use caution on waterways as springtime river flows begin
With spring and warmer temperatures on the horizon, Wisconsin River Power Company (WRPCO)
is
reminding people to use the reservoirs and rivers surrounding its Petenwell and Castle Rock
hydroelectric dams cautiously during the next several weeks.
The combination of rain, dormant plants and thawing terrain in spring may lead to substantial water
runoff along the Wisconsin River and into the Petenwell and Castle Rock reservoirs. Unseasonably
warm stretches of weather in mid-January and late February have resulted in significant water runoff
and elevated river flows affecting the Wisconsin River. Increased river flows can speed up currents
and raise water levels, making activities on the reservoirs more hazardous than normal.
To prepare for the increase in runoff, WRPCO has been drawing down the reservoirs at both the
Petenwell and Castle Rock Dams since early February. The company closely monitors river flows
and water levels throughout the year.
WRPCO encourages residents, business owners and outdoor enthusiasts to take note of weather
forecasts and river conditions before using the Petenwell or Castle Rock reservoirs, particularly
during this time of year. Current river flow and reservoir elevation information can be found at wisconsinriverpower.com.
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