Dworshak Reservoir near Orofino is expected to be several feet below full pool during the 4th of July holiday weekend.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has initiated its annual summer release of water from Dworshak Dam to cool the Snake River downstream. This release is conducted to maintain the river temperature below 68 degrees, which is important for fish survival. On Thursday morning, the river temperature at Lower Granite Dam, located south of Colfax, was approximately 64 degrees.

As a result of the water release, the Dworshak Reservoir is projected to be between five and ten feet below full pool for the holiday weekend. The Corps has advised boaters on the reservoir to be cautious of the declining water levels. Additionally, individuals enjoying the Clearwater River and its north fork downstream of the dam should be aware of the potential for rising water levels.

This marks the earliest start to the summer water release from Dworshak since 2021.