As the ample 2018 snowpack slowly begins to dwindle in Montana and Idaho, a couple dam-related opportunities for Class IV and V paddling will occur in late July and perhaps early August.   

On July 26, 2018, from 10:00am to 2:00 there will be a 1200cfs dam release on the Black Canyon of the Bear River. This release is related to a hydropower study and is not part of the pulse flow schedule negotiated by American Whitewater on the same reach. Paddlers are welcome to take advantage of this unique mid-summer release on the Bear. 1200cfs is considered a high runnable flow by most paddlers. 

Also coming up in late July and perhaps early August are the releases American Whitewater and Beartooth Paddlers negotiated on West Rosebud Creek. These releases occur as the instream flows drop through a specific flow range. This range is very generally 250-400cfs on this gage, but the specifics matter so be sure to consult the protocol. Weekend releases are likely in the weeks ahead. Please sign into the register on-site if you paddle West Rosebud and AW would love some more photos of the run. 

Enjoy!