For More Information Contact:
Marty Douglass, 341-1879
Eugene Water & Electric Board

April 17, 2006

Trail Bridge Reservoir levels to fluctuate

The level of Trail Bridge Reservoir will periodically fluctuate by as much as 12 feet over the next month as the Eugene Water & Electric Board conducts fish stranding studies in the reservoir. Fishermen and other recreationists should be on the lookout for changes in the water level on any weekday through the end of May. Levels will not fluctuate on Saturdays and Sundays. Recreationists are also asked to not disturb any staking or nylon markers.

Trail Bridge Reservoir is part of EWEB’s Carmen-Smith Hydroelectric Project located 70 miles east of Eugene on the upper McKenzie River. EWEB is in the process of applying for a new operating license for the facility. The fish stranding study is part of that process.

The existing license stipulates a seven foot fluctuation range during fishing season. However, permission was obtained from Federal and State fisheries agencies, as well as the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, to allow for a 12 foot fluctuation range during the testing period. Testing is expected to be completed by May 26.

With the opening of fishing season just a few days away, those fishing at the reservoir should be particularly cautious of the potential change in the reservoir level. Boaters using the existing boat ramp should also be aware of the changing levels. The rate of water level change will be in the range of one to two feet per hour, according to EWEB officials.