SHERIDAN, WY— Stream flows on the East Fork of Big Goose Creek and other mountain tributaries rose significantly over the weekend and will continue to rise, with warmer weather forecasted for this coming week. To safely pass these higher stream flows and ensure the integrity of their reservoir facilities, Park Reservoir Company will begin a controlled release early Tuesday morning June 4.
This controlled release *along with contributions from other tributaries* will lead to Big Goose Creek again rising late Tuesday afternoon on into Wednesday. The release will strictly be equal to or below the inflows into the reservoir and will not involve any previously stored water. This release is unavoidable and necessary and has been conjointly discussed and accepted by the Wyoming State Engineer’s Office, Sheridan County Emergency Management, Sheridan County Engineer, Sheridan County Board of County Commissioners, and the City of Sheridan.
The main area of concern of possible flooding is on Big Goose Creek west of Sheridan through Kendrick Park. Other local streams could be affected as well, if thunderstorms materialize and deposit additional precipitation. According to the National Weather Service in Billings, the greatest chance for rain is from Friday through Sunday.
Additional state resources are again being deployed to Sheridan as a precautionary measure and are expected to arrive sometime this evening. A supply of pre-filled sandbags are located at the County Fairgrounds. Folks in the affected areas should remain vigilant regarding stream and weather conditions and take proactive steps to continue (or complete) movement of equipment, livestock, pets etc. from low-lying areas.
For questions contact the Sheridan County Commissioners: 307-674-2900