Rule Curve Evaluation

 

What is the Rule Curve Evaluation?

The water levels of Rainy Lake and the Namakan Chain of lakes are regulated within upper and lower limits set by the International Joint Commission (IJC) – these limits are known as a "rule curve" that is meant to maintain sufficient water levels for a wide variety of uses and interests.  With the latest rule curve having been set in 2000, the IJC committed to reviewing those upper and lower limits in 2015 and appointed a Rainy and Namakan Lakes Rule Curves Study Board (Study Board) in August 2015.  

This Study Board will provide the IJC with scientifically supported recommendations for the modification or retention of the 2000 Rainy and Namakan Lakes rule curves, considering the extensive research that has been done since 2009 and prior on the hydrologic, hydraulic, cultural, economic and environmental risk factors. The geographic scope of this study comprises Rainy Lake and the Namakan Chain of lakes, the connecting channels and the Rainy River downstream of Rainy Lake to Lake of the Woods, and the riparian areas adjacent to these water bodies.

The Study Board developed a Study Strategy that lays out the methodology for conducting the evaluation.  Key stakeholder input received during the public review and comment period in early 2016 has been considered as the evaluation has progressed and the Study Board response to this input is in an Addendum, dated July 7, 2016.   

Study Board Resources