Residents, property owners and people enjoying lakes and rivers across Xcel Energy’s northern Wisconsin river systems may notice much lower water levels than normal this summer. An extended stretch of hot, dry weather and below-average rainfall has reduced the amount of water flowing into reservoirs and rivers throughout the watersheds, prompting Xcel Energy to adjust operations at several hydroelectric facilities.
Inflows to the river systems and associated reservoirs have steadily declined throughout the summer in many watersheds across Wisconsin. Several flowages and rivers are at levels that are uncommon for this time of year and, in some locations, among the lowest conditions observed in recent history. In cooperation with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Xcel Energy is actively managing reservoir operations to protect water resources while maintaining required environmental flows and reservoir elevations. People may notice a variety of changes throughout the river corridor and associated flowages, including:
- Lower-than-normal water levels along shorelines and in backwater areas.
- Reduced river flows downstream of dams and hydro facilities.
- Exposed sandbars, mud flats, rocks, stumps and other navigation hazards that are typically submerged.
- Limited access at some boat launches and docks due to shallow water.
- Slower travel conditions for boaters and paddlers in certain stretches of the river.
Property owners along rivers and reservoirs should closely monitor changing water conditions and take appropriate precautions with docks, lifts, boats and other shoreline equipment. Recreational users are encouraged to exercise caution and be alert for unexpected hazards when boating, paddling, fishing or swimming.
Xcel Energy and WDNR continue to monitor precipitation, streamflows and reservoir conditions across the area and will make operational adjustments as conditions warrant. The duration and extent of low-water conditions will depend largely on future rainfaill.
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Xcel Energy operates 19 hydroelectric plants in Wisconsin on eight rivers with a total generating capacity of about 270 megwatts.
