The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
The Spokesman-Review Newspaper The Spokesman-Review
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883
Current Temperature
51°F
Current Conditions
Clear sky
View complete weather report
Subscribe now

Meeting planned to discuss potential Priest Lake cold-water bypass

Recreation continued near Outlet Dam in Priest Lake on Monday, August 10, 2015. A proposed cold-water bypass would pump cold water from deep in Priest Lake up and over Outlet Dam. The cold water, Idaho Fish and Game managers believe, would create a vibrant trout fishery in Priest River. (Kathy Plonka / The Spokesman-Review)
By Eli Francovich elif@spokesman.com(509) 459-5508

A potential cold-water bypass in Priest Lake will be discussed at public meeting on May 22 at 6:30 p.m. at the Priest Lake Elementary School (28047 ID-57, Priest River, Idaho.)

The bypass proposal would pump colder water from deep in Priest Lake over the dam and into the Priest River with the aim of enhancing trout populations, according to an Idaho Fish and Game news release. Colder water would “substantially increase trout populations,” according to the release. The system has been used effectively in Michigan and Washington.

However, some worry that the bypass would impact summer recreation and the ecology of Priest Lake.

No decision has been made, however IDFG is working with an engineering firm to assess “costs and determine approaches that avoid impacts to navigation, aesthetics, or lake level management.”

Currently officials are considering withdrawing at most 5 percent of the deep, cold water layer of the lake, according to the news release.

The meeting is hosted by the Priest Lake Sportsmen’s Association. IDFG officials will be present.

Individuals with disabilities may request meeting accommodations by contacting Grant Brockus, President of the Priest Lake Sportsman’s Association at 208-443-3177; or the Idaho Relay Service at 800‑377‑2529.