September 12, 2009 BRF Dam Conducts Water Release For Paddlers

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On Saturday, September 12th, the Black River Falls (BRF) Municipal Utility conducted a water release for area paddlers. The release was held from 8:00 to 9:30 am. The east gate (#8) was opened 10% to allow for 300 cubic feet per second (cfs) of water to flow through the dam. This was the first ever paddlers’ release from the BRF dam. This 300 cfs release was intended to simulate the projected 330 cfs flow ability that the low flow generator is anticipated to deliver through the east side of the new dam.

Many onlookers enjoyed watching the 18 paddlers who participated in this release, organized by Friends of the Black River (FBR) and its board member Jeff Polzin. "I didn't know what to expect from this release, but in the end was very pleased with the outcome", commented Polzin who also noted "Today proved that minimal water releases like this can result in fun and safe paddling opportunities for local and visiting kayakers.” BRF paddler Marc Rukevina commented, "We saw some really fun wave action below gate 8." This was evident and onlookers were impressed with the talent demonstrated by paddlers surfing and spinning around playfully in the waves.

Paddler's releases from hydroelectric facilities are enjoyed in other Wisconsin municipalities including Hatfield, Wausau, and Jim Falls, which all conduct scheduled whitewater releases throughout the year. Two board members from the popular Wausau whitewater course were in attendance on Saturday to analyze the results from this release. Their President, Mike Schroeder, noted, "There is great potential for the BRF dam to produce excellent whitewater paddling opportunities both directly below the dam and in the tailrace." Polzin added "The tail race provides increased flexibility, including the opportunity for a slalom course."

FBR has received two grants to assist in developing whitewater paddling opportunities in Black River Falls. With the expertise of a hydrologic engineer, assessment for rock placement, water depth, flow levels, and anticipated wave action is now occurring. Volunteers continue to work with government officials pursuing the necessary approval required for the whitewater course planning to proceed.

Upon completion of the morning release, the enthusiastic group of paddlers headed downstream to Mason's Landing, collecting three tires, an orange construction barrel, and other miscellaneous trash along the way.
Friends of the Black River is planning a mid October paddle from Hall's Creek to the dam to tour the drawn down impoundment. This will be planned to coincide with the next Hatfield water release, to provide whitewater as well as tour opportunities for interested paddlers.

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