The low flow gate on the Prior Lake Outlet Structure was opened yesterday at noon. Prior Lake was at 902.87 feet above sea level prior to opening the low flow gate. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) 7-day weather forecast starting today through Sunday calls for more rain. The low flow gate operates best when the lake level is between 902.0 and 903.0. Once the lake moves above 903.0 feet, the low flow gate has very little effect, resulting in almost no extra flow from the lake. For more information on the low flow gate and the outlet structure see the StoryMap on our website.
The DNR gave the District permission to open the low-flow gate through the end of April. We will check with the DNR again on May 1 to see if we can continue to keep it open, if needed.