Flathead Lake will be kept higher this spring to prepare for a dry summer [Video]

POLSON — The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers approved a request by Energy Keepers, Inc. (EKI) on March 25, 2024, to keep Flathead Lake two feet higher than normal this spring.

The hope is to allow for higher lake levels later in the year.

• RELATED: Feds say Energy Keepers managed Flathead Lake levels appropriately amid public outcry

This request means EKI will deviate from the Flood Risk Management Plan, where normally the water level is reduced to 2883 feet in preparation for spring runoff. EKI officials say this change increases the likelihood of Flathead Lake reaching full pool in June.

EKI Communications Director Robert McDonald told MTN News that the company plans to keep the lake fuller for longer this year.

Each Spring, EKI, uses the SKQ Dam to drain Flathead Lake each spring, lowering it 10 feet below full-pool.

They do this so that the lake can catch all the …