Dam operators keeping more water in Flathead Lake this spring

The operators of the Séliš Ksanka QÍispé Dam got the go-ahead in March to keep more water in Flathead Lake this spring in an effort to avoid a repeat of last summer’s low water levels.

Energy Keepers, Inc., the company that oversees the dam on the south end of Flathead Lake, had previously petitioned the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to deviate from the lake’s Flood Risk Management Plan.

The water level of the lake is typically drawn down to 2,883 feet each spring as per the management plan. The deviation will keep the level at 2,885 feet — two feet higher than usual — in anticipation of low snowpacks and minimal runoff. 

While the lake is usually lowered to make room for spring runoff, the Corps determined that the risk of flooding is minimal, according to Energy Keepers’ Communication Director Robert McDonald. 

“Mother nature is not always predictable,” McDonald said. “May will be key in determining our outlook as the May forecast has always been critical in giving us the best view forward.”

The request came after the summer of 2023 was marred by record low water levels in Flathead Lake, which sparked criticism from lawmakers and shoreline property owners. 

The low water flows into the lake that occurred in 2023 are likely to repeat this year, according to forecasters. In preparation, the lake began refilling operations earlier to respond to precipitation and hydrological trends. 

The National Organization for Saving Flathead Lake has advocated for maintaining more water in the lake for recreational purposes since water levels dropped last summer.

Deviating from the flood management plan is a good place to start, organization members said. 

“At this point in time I think it is an excellent idea,” said Carole James, board president of the group. “It gives us a fighting chance.”

Flathead Lake will likely be in the 2,888-2,891 foot range by the end of May, Energy Keepers officials said. 

“By taking these actions early in the season we increase the likelihood Flathead Lake will reach its maximum elevation in what forecasters are predicting as another dry year,” said Energy Keepers CEO Brian Lipscomb in a statement. “Should we experience unforeseen precipitation then we can make further adjustments. By May, we are prepared to make further changes to standard operations depending on weather conditions.”

Reporter Kate Heston can be reached at kheston@dailyinterlake.com or 758-4459.