September 1, 2008

September 1, 2008 11:35 AM

REPORT FROM PPL MONTANA
We have just been notified by PPL that there is a crane in position at the dam and they are installing a steel plate or bulkhead to stabilize or decrease the flow. This will probably take most of the day or longer. Once this bulkhead is in place a more thorough inspection of the dam will be possible. PPL does not consider this an emergency situation and is working hard to provide information to the people affected by these developments. They will use their website PPL Montana to provide timely information. PPL has an Emergency Action Plan in place, should this be needed.

September 1, 2008 9:35 AM

THE UPPER MADISON IS NOW

CLOSED AGAIN

We have just been notified by FWP and BLM that they are reassessing the situation and are now closing all access sites until further notice.

September 1, 2008 8:45 AM

THE UPPER MADISON IS OPEN FOR DAY USE ONLY
We have just been notified by FWP that they are opening the Upper Madison for day use only – both for driftboats and waders. People should be mindful of possible sudden increases in flows. The FWP will post warnings at the access sites. No overnight camping or night fishing will be allowed until further notice. The river is muddy, with visibility of 12 inches or less. Flow is 3,220 at Kirby Ranch. We will update this site whenever we receive new information.

September 1, 2008 8:00 AM

THE UPPER MADISON IS CLOSED

Problem at Hebgen Dam – Suddenly Triples Flow of Upper Madison on Sunday, Aug. 31

Around midday yesterday a problem occurred at the dam, suddenly increasing the flow from 940 cfs to around 3,300 cfs:

All the campgrounds along the river and the lower areas around Jeffers were reportedly evacuated yesterday afternoon and evening. PPL Montana was reportedly pouring concrete at the dam last night. Flows have been stable through the night.

FWP has notified us that the Upper Madison is closed until further notice.

We will post additional information as it becomes available to us.

McAtee Access Site September 1, 2008:

Downstream From McAtee Bridge Sept. 1, 2008

Dan Marty Nancy Brad