Keuka Lake Outlet Compact

Special Event Water Release and Reduced Flow Policy

At their January 2003 meeting, the Keuka Lake Outlet Compact (KLOC) adopted a "Special Event Water Release and Reduced Flow Policy." The purpose of the policy is to improve scheduling and communication of special events on the outlet, minimize risk, and help avoid conflicts of uses while maintaining the primary goal of flood protection and public safety.

When evaluating a request to open or close the outlet gates for a special event, the KLOC Gate Manager will consider the cost, amount of potential water discharge, and impact on current or expected water level. Events scheduled during normal Village employee working hours would not incur a charge. Scheduled releases or changes to gates settings will be considered if the current lake level is within the lake level guide window (i.e. between the recommended minimum and maximum levels). During high water levels, i.e., above the maximum recommended level, and where gate settings and water discharges are being used to control flooding potential on Keuka Lake according to the Reservoir Regulation Manual, requests to reduce water releases for a Special Event will not be allowed.

In their discussions, the KLOC recognized that many groups have an interest in Special Event water releases or reduced flow in the Keuka Lake Outlet and these Special Events have a positive impact on the local economy. In the past, some of these events were conducted without public notification or requirements for insurance. According to John Anderson, Chairman of the KLOC, "this is a needed policy to help the KLOC reduce risk and ensure lake levels are properly maintained."

Groups interested in requesting a special event release or reduced flow will be required to fill out and submit a request to the KLOC Gate Manager at least two weeks prior to the event. The advanced notice will allow time for scheduling and public notification in the local media and on the Keuka Lake Association's website. Approved events will be posted on the bottom of the "Keuka Lake Level Guide" that is published in several local papers. Events will also be posted on the lake level page. Information about releases requested for recreational paddling or racing will also be available at www.kayakracing.org.

According to Ed Balsley, KLOC Gate Manager, "this policy will afford better communication between the KLOC, interested parties, and the public who may be using the Keuka Outlet during special events." The public should be aware, however, that unscheduled water releases by the Gate Manager for normal flood/water level control will cause the outlet water levels to rise rapidly and without warning. Recreationists need to be aware of this situation and respond accordingly.

Groups interested in obtaining a request form may contact the KLOC Manager's office at: KLOC Gate Manager, 5 Maiden Lane, Penn Yan, NY 14527 or Fax: 315-536-5866 or email: mubed@adelphia.net. Forms may also be obtained here under Contents > Lake Level .