TULSA- Total water releases of approximately 170 cubic feet per second (cfs) began Tuesday from John Redmond Reservoir. The 170-cfs release will last for the next 30 days and may lower the lake level an additional 1.3 feet during that time period. This estimation is based on no additional rainfall.

The increased release was requested by the Kansas Water Office (KWO) on behalf of Wolf Creek Generating plant for use in their cooling reservoir. KWO owns water supply storage in John Redmond Reservoir on behalf of the state of Kansas and provides water supply to municipal and industrial users. A 50-cfs release was already being made in response to low streamflow conditions downstream as well as to insure water quality and a reliable water supply.

"John Redmond Reservoir is very a valuable resource for many Kansans," said Tracy Streeter, Director of the Kansas Water Office. "Last year, the Corps operated for flood control a large amount of the summer, and this summer we must rely on the lake to meet our downstream water supply as well as water quality needs as flows in the Neosho River diminish. Meeting our obligations to Wolf Creek is KWO’s number one priority."

The lake is currently 1.5 feet below normal conservation pool level due to maintenance work at the dam.

"Safety is a major concern, and recreational users should be aware that the lower levels may expose boating hazards around the reservoir that may have been submerged with normal water elevations," said Eugene Goff, Kansas area manager for Tulsa District Corps of Engineers lakes in Kansas. "Boaters are urged to use caution while boating and launching boats. The lower levels may also impact boat ramps."

John Redmond Reservoir was completed in September 1964 and authorized for flood control, water supply, water quality control, and recreation purposes.

For more information about current lake levels, visit the Water Control Data System or the daily report link under the Lakes and River Information link on the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Tulsa District Homepage, www.swt.usace.army.mil or call the John Redmond Reservoir office at 620-364-8614.