INTERNATIONAL RAINY LAKE BOARD OF CONTROL            
IRLBC

News Release

July 24, 2002

BOARD AUTHORIZES REDUCTION IN RAINY LAKE OUTFLOW

Today, the Board authorized a reduction in the outflow from Rainy Lake. This action will begin the process of gradually slowing the rate of decline in the level of the lake, which is expected to return back to within its IJC rule curve band within the next week. It will also begin the process of a gradual and orderly decline in Rainy Lake outflow and downstream Rainy River levels.

The level of Rainy Lake this morning was 337.90 m (1108.6 ft), down 66 cm (26.0 inches) from its peak of 338.56 m (1110.77 ft) on June 27, down 3 cm (1.2 inches) from yesterday morning's reading and continuing a downward trend. The level of Rainy Lake has now declined to its "all gates open" level of 337.90 m (1108.6 ft) and continues to decline, currently being 15 cm (5.9 inches) above its Upper Rule Curve.

The Board recommends that property owners and users of the system continue to keep themselves updated on basin conditions. Up-to-date information can be found on Boise’s web site (lakes.bc.com), on the Lake of the Woods Control Board site (www.lwcb.ca) and on the St. Paul District Corps of Engineers web site (www.mvp-wc.usace.army.mil). Persons can also call the Board’s engineering advisors, Rick Walden (819-997-2529) or Ed Eaton (651-290-5617).

FURTHER INFORMATION:

Rick Walden 819-997-2529
Ed Eaton 651-290-5617