Lake levels high due to wet October, maintenance continues on generator
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News from Energy Keepers, Inc. The current outflow of SKQ Dam is about 18,300 cubic feet per second and the lake elevation, as of Nov. 1 at midnight, was 2,892.6 feet. October was a very wet month, with the natural streamflow 338 percent of average (historical data from 1981-2010) and is forecasted to be 233 percent of normal in November. Precipitation accumulation was 347 percent of average as measured by the National Weather Service at the SKQ Dam.
Flows into the Flathead Lake are forecasted to decline in the next few weeks, but November water supply outlook is still at 233 percent of normal.
Energy Keepers’ plan is to hold the current operation through the first week of December when the third generator will hopefully be returned to service. By the end of December, they plan on being drafted down below 2891 feet.
SKQ Dam is in the midst of two major maintenance projects at the Powerhouse. Scheduled maintenance work is being done on Unit 3, including an inspection, testing, cleaning, and a fresh coat of paint.
Construction of a new bridge is also underway.
Final maintenance on the SKQ Overlook is currently being done. The gates to the observatory were closed Oct. 19 for the winter season. For more information contact the main office at (406) 883-1113 or email information@energykeepersinc.com.
News and updates can be found at energykeepersinc.com or on Facebook.
