STILLWATER COUNTY, Mont. – NorthWestern Energy announced plans on Tuesday to release water from the West Rosebud Dam on multiple days during and after the holiday weekend, in an effort to “enhance whitewater boating opportunities” on West Rosebud Creek.
These “whitewater flow enhancement releases” are part of the utility company’s Mystic Hydroelectric Project Whitewater Flow Enhancement Program, scheduled to take place on July 4 and 5, as well as July 11 and 18, starting around 9 a.m.
“Peak flows are expected to reach the outlet of Emerald Lake between 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. and continue for approximately 2.5 hours before gradually returning to pre-enhancement conditions,” the company said.
According to NorthWestern Energy, around 500 cubic feet per second of water will be released into West Rosebud Creek, with each release lasting roughly five hours.
All boaters, rafters and kayakers are required to sign in before heading out on the water, and can do so by visiting the sign-in station at the Emerald Lake outlet boat launch.
The company also noted that while the nearby Pine Grove Campground has been temporarily closed as crews work to remove hazardous trees, the Emerald Lake Campground will be open during the scheduled releases.