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Ashokan Release Channel Operations 3/28/12

The Ashokan Release Channel was decreased today from 10 to 0 MGD at 8:47AM.

In accordance with Ashokan Release Interim Protocol Section 7.c. Exceptions, DEP is temporarily stopping the Ashokan Release in order to install flow-monitoring equipment in the release channel and perform engineering inspection of release channel walls. This work is expected to take 3 successive workdays. The release will be resumed at night provided it will not damage work in progress.

The installation of the flow metering equipment will improve the ability to measure future release rates. The engineering inspection will be used to develop designs for repairs to the 100 year old walls which DEP wants to perform in the near future.

Reservoir Release Workshop

The Lower Esopus Ashokan Reservoir Release Workshop
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
6:30 – 8:30 pm
@ Cornell Cooperative Extension of Ulster County
In their new Kingston Plaza location at 232 Plaza Road
RSVP cbalmer@rcapsolutions.org

Thank you to all who were able to attend the LEWP-sponsored Lower Esopus Positive Action Workshop at the end of January. We are in the process of confirming and revising the priority projects that were identified during the workshop. One of the major activities we have been pursuing since then is the removal of log/ debris jams along the stream. LEWP is helping coordinate a funding application that is being submitted by Ulster County Soil and Water Conservation District in early April. This funding is for debris sites that did not meet the imminent threat criteria required for funding through the Emergency Watershed Protection Program.

For many of you, the biggest concern is with water quality and quantity associated with releases from the Ashokan Reservoir. LEWP is holding a workshop to provide updates on this issue, including details of NYSDEC/ NYCDEP’s Interim Release Protocol; and to document your concerns and identify community action steps. Please save the date and email RSVP to Candace Balmer cbalmer@rcapsolutions.org.