Lake Coeur d'Alene returns to natural level after drawdown concludes

Avista Utilities has confirmed the fall drawdown of Lake Coeur d’Alene concluded Dec. 15 when the lake elevation returned to its natural level.

As part of Avista’s license to operate its Spokane River Hydroelectric Project, the utility company is required to maintain the level of Lake Coeur d’Alene.

As of Monday, the elevation of Coeur d'Alene Lake is 2,122.19, which is about 5 feet 10 inches below maximum summer level.

Avista officials expect the elevation of the lake and the water in the river to increase over the next week as more water flows in than flows out, but water conditions can change drastically at any time depending upon weather and dam operations. 

Lake elevation will be at its natural level as water flowing out of the lake is limited by the natural outlet restriction. Post Falls dam will simply pass whatever flows out of Lake Coeur d'Alene. 

For additional information, call 509-495-4283 or 509-495-4573.