Reclamation cautions public as it plans annual lowering of Glendo and Guernsey Reservoirs

MILLS, Wyo. - The Bureau of Reclamation will begin lowering water levels at Guernsey Reservoir the week of August 9^th, as the 2026 irrigation season concludes. This annual drawdown occurs in anticipation of irrigation deliveries ending each year. Due to the ongoing drought, Glendo and Guernsey lowering will occur approximately a month earlier than is typical.

"Boaters, recreationists, and irrigators should take proper precautions regarding changing river flows below Glendo and Guernsey Reservoirs, as well as the changing elevations of both reservoirs," said Wyoming Area Manager Lyle Myler.

Watercraft owners are advised to remove boats early, while ramps remain accessible, to avoid problems caused by falling water levels.

To make the elevation changes at Guernsey Reservoir, outflows from Glendo Reservoir will be decreased on Monday, August 9^th and will shut down to low flow before the end of August. The Glendo Reservoir elevation over the weekend of August 8^th and 9^th is expected to be near 4,594 feet. Glendo Reservoir will continue to decline to an elevation of near 4,584 feet by Saturday, August 22^nd. The Marina, Reno Cove, and Whiskey Gulch boat ramps will be useable, but navigation around the Marina Docks may be difficult.

Glendo Reservoir levels will gradually increase over the winter while capturing natural inflows and releases from Gray Reef Reservoir.

Guernsey Reservoir is the furthest downstream reservoir in the system of Federal storage reservoirs on the main stem of the North Platte River. During the irrigation season, water released from Guernsey Reservoir produces hydropower while serving irrigation development in eastern Wyoming and western Nebraska.