Reclamation To Lower Levels Of Washington’s Banks Lake

The Bureau of Reclamation announced plans to lower the elevation of central Washington's Banks Lake, located between Ephrata and Grand Coulee Dam.  The water levels will be lowered by 6.2 feet in an effort to support fisheries and groundwater replacement objectives.  The lower-than-normal reservoir levels are expected to start as early as Wednesday, August 27th, and may continue through Thursday, September 4th.

Because of the drawdown several boat ramps at Banks Lake will be temporarily unavailable.  Reclamation said is warning the public to exercise caution around the reservoir and lakeshore during this drawdown period due to shallow water and narrower channels.  Areas of high concern, such as the Devil’s Punchbowl, should be approached with particular caution.

Once fisheries and groundwater replacement objectives are met, the reservoir will be returned to its regular operating elevation.

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