2008 High-Flow Experiment at Glen Canyon Dam Benefits Colorado River Resources in Grand Canyon National Park

A 60-hour high-flow experiment at Glen Canyon Dam in 2008 demonstrated that mimicking natural seasonal flooding can significantly benefit downstream resources in Grand Canyon National Park. The study, conducted by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and cooperators, found that such releases could rebuild sandbars, enhance nearshore habitat for endangered humpback chub, and positively impact other resources like archaeological sites, rainbow trout populations, aquatic food availability, and riverside vegetation. Researchers monitored physical and biological changes before, during, and after the release to assess these effects, providing critical insights into managing water releases for ecological restoration in the region.

Melis, T. S., Topping, D. J., Grams, P. E., Rubin, D. M., Wright, S. A., Draut, A. E., Hazel, J. E., Ralston, B. E., Kennedy, T. A., Rosi-Marshall, E., Korman, J., Hilwig, K. D., & Schmit, L. M. (2010). 2008 High-Flow Experiment at Glen Canyon Dam Benefits Colorado River Resources in Grand Canyon National Park. Fact Sheet. https://doi.org/10.3133/fs20103009