The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation has been notified of a breach of the Interstate Canal located west of the town of Lingle, in southeast Wyoming, which occurred on the evening of June 30 and the morning of July 1. At the time of breach, the canal was diverting approximately 1800 cubic-feet-per-second. No injuries occurred as a result of this breach.
"The Pathfinder Irrigation District and Reclamation, are assessing the situation," said Lyle D. Myler, Wyoming Area o manager. "We are responding as quickly and as safely as possible to return the canal to service."
More than 90,000 irrigated acres will experience a temporary discontinuation of water service. Preliminary inspections estimated the canal can be returned to service in a matter of days. Meanwhile, Pathfinder Irrigation District is on site working to place rip-rap in the breach to minimize flooding and retain as much water in the canal as possible.
The canal is over 100 years old and was constructed during 1905-1915. It follows the contour of the land for 95 miles from Whalen Diversion Dam to Lake Alice and Lake Minatare Reservoirs northeast of Scotts Bluff, Nebraska. The Canal serves Lingle, Hill, and Pathfinder Irrigation Districts.
The National Weather Service in Cheyenne issued a flood advisory for Highway 26 in Goshen County. According to the NWS release, flows are heading toward Highway 26 and may follow the railroad tracks into Lingle. Minor flooding is expected in the area. The public is advised not to drive through flooded areas or standing water.
Details and updates on facilities and operations managed by Reclamation's Wyoming Area Office will continue to be posted on our website at https://www.usbr.gov/gp/wyao/.
Categories: Nebraska, General