KANSAS CITY, Mo. –The Kansas City District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers recently sought public input regarding the Rathbun Lake annual fall release. The Kansas City District has carefully evaluated the release against public and stakeholder input, water available in storage, downstream conditions and weather forecasts. In consideration of these factors, the district has determined the fall release will occur the week of September 23, 2024.
During this time period you may observe higher-than-expected flows discharging from Rathbun Lake and into the Chariton River when compared against flows expected based on recent climatic conditions. Please use caution and stay away from high and fast-moving water.
Background: The 2016 revised Rathbun Lake Water Control Manual includes an opportunity each fall for the lake to release water, benefiting conservation and recreational areas managed by both the state and private entities downstream in the Chariton watershed. This controlled release from Rathbun Dam will not exceed 2,700 cubic feet per second and will last up to three to four days, not counting the ramp-up and ramp-down periods.
Questions and comments regarding this water release can be directed to the Rathbun Lake Project Operation office manager at 641-647-2464 or the Kansas City District Water Management Office at 816-389-3545.
