COVINGTON, Va. – Gathright Dam operators are scheduled to carry out the year’s second water-pulse release from Lake Moomaw on Wednesday.
The pulse, conducted by Norfolk District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in coordination with the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality and Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries, will take place about 6 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
At its peak, the dam will release 3,500 cubic feet of water per second, increasing Jackson River levels 3 to 4.5 feet.
People who use the river are advised to be aware of fluctuations caused by the pulses, agency officials said.
Remaining pulse dates for 2019 are set for the following Wednesdays:
Aug. 14
Sept. 4
Sept. 25
Oct. 16
Dates are subject to change based on weather conditions and rainfall.
Norfolk District announces schedule changes on its website at www.nao.usace.army.mil and social media platforms at www.facebook.com/NAOonFB and https://twitter.com/NorfolkDistrict.
Pulse releases, which began in 2011, are designed to improve aquatic habitat and water quality in the Lower Jackson River. Monitoring data has shown the increased flow scours excess algae from downstream aquatic habitat and strengthens the river’s health.
According to its mission statement, Norfolk District provides innovative engineering solutions – in collaboration with partners – to deliver water resources, military, interagency, environmental and disaster-response programs that make communities, the commonwealth of Virginia and nation a better place to work and live.