Document - West Branch Montreal River Internet Flow Study

Abstract

The West Branch of the Montreal is a low-volume, popular class IV- whitewater river located on the south shore of Lake Superior in northern Wisconsin, USA. Those seeking whitewater recreation can generally only find adequate flows during a week or two in early spring when the reservoir upstream spills. In this study researchers have utilized the structural norm approach and impact acceptability curves to examine instream flows for recreation on the West Branch of the Montreal. The range of acceptable flows, as determined by the impact acceptability curve was from 400-1,000 cfs. All average evaluations for flows between these levels were above the neutral line. 600 cfs received the highest average evaluation and is therefore considered to be the optimal flow. According to these data, a release of 600 cfs would appeal to the greatest variety of river users. Dam operations upstream of Gile Falls could allow for scheduled whitewater releases into the West Branch extending the recreation season for paddling in the Lake Superior area.

Description

Instream flow study for the West Branch of the Montreal.

Document Information

Filename - West Branch Montreal River Internet Flow Study243.pdf

Size - 389.75KB

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