Wyoming Reservoirs Could See More Early Releases

CASPER, Wyo. (AP) — The North Platte River reservoir system in Wyoming is storing 38 percent more water than normal at this time of year.

The man who recently retired from managing the system for the past 22 years says federal water managers should guard against flooding by releasing water early again this year.

The Associated Press reports Former Bureau of Reclamation Wyoming Area Manager John Lawson says he thinks water should be released downstream about two months ahead of schedule in late February or early March.

Lawson retired Dec. 31st.  Bureau officials have not yet selected his successor.

The bureau released water earlier than normal last year. Lawson credits the early released with helping to minimize flooding caused by runoff from the heavy snowpack last winter.