On June 10 & 11, 2003, a flow study was conducted by American Whitewater with the cooperation of Reliant Energy. Participants included members of the American Whitewater and the Adirondack Mountain Club as well as open boat paddling legend Jim Michaud. The Sacandaga Outdoor Center provided shuttle transportation with their van and trailer. The study revealed two recreational resources: a Class V section containing two park-and-huck waterfalls, and a lower gorge containing good Class III playboating and river running opportunities.

Based on the results of the successful flow study, we were able to negotiate recreational releases on the reach. Each spring a single release is provided and use levels monitored.