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Environment

US Officials Skip Cool Water Release From Glen Canyon Dam

Lower temperatures help prevent invasive smallmouth bass from spawning and reduce pressure on the threatened humpback chub.

,   and  TIPP Staff
2 min read
Officials will not release cool water from a Colorado River reservoir to protect threatened fish. Pic via(@CTVNews)

Federal officials have decided not to release cool water from Glen Canyon Dam this year, opting to preserve hydropower generation instead of using the water to protect threatened fish downstream.

According to the Bureau of Reclamation, the decision comes as Lake Powell remains only about 23 percent full after years of drought, heavy water use, and changing climate conditions.

The report said cool water releases are typically considered when river temperatures remain above about 60 degrees Fahrenheit for three consecutive days. Lower temperatures help prevent invasive smallmouth bass from spawning and reduce pressure on the threatened humpback chub.

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The decision drew mixed reactions. Andy Colosimo of the Colorado River Energy Distributors Association supported the move, calling it the right decision, while Matt Rice of American Rivers argued it could seriously harm the humpback chub population.

Officials said they will instead expand fish removal efforts, develop new management tools, and pursue long-term structural solutions to protect the river ecosystem.

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