CAMPBELL RIVER, B.C. – With storms in the forecast, BC Hydro will release more water down Elk Falls.
According to a release from the utility, the Upper Campbell River/Buttle Lake reservoirs are nearly full. Water levels are expected to rise with the coming storm, as well as the snowmelt that may come into the system.
The current water release is at 4 cubic metres per seconds (m3/s). According to spokesperson Stephen Watson, they have increased flows to 80 m3/s. Depending on how heavy the rains are, the water spill may go up to 110 m3/s or the 80 m3/s flow might end sooner.
The utility is advising residents to stay away from the falls and the Campbell River areas this week.
Anglers are also advised to exercise caution around the Campbell River, which is below the John Hart generating station from now until February 15th.
Watson said in a statement that the utility is entering a six-week period where BC Hydro can adjust operations at the John Hart facility to respond to Campbell River’s electric system demands.
He added that this is because the system is tied to the fish life-cycle. Currently, there are no adult salmon in the river, and spawning season is over.
As a result of this service flexibility, fishers are also advised to exercise caution when they are in the Campbell River area. BC Hydro will try to increase water flows before daylight, but timing changes depend on electric system conditions and how much water is in the Campbell River system reservoirs.
