Swift Creek Reservoir Update

Posted: July 15, 2026

Afton, Wyoming — Lower Valley Energy continues to make progress following the July 13 failure of the upper reservoir sluice gate at the Swift Creek Hydroelectric Project.

Since yesterday, reservoir levels have continued to gradually decline as water passes through the damaged gate. The reservoir has dropped approximately 16 inches since yesterday afternoon, and water clarity has improved significantly within the reservoir and in the first portion of Swift Creek below the dam. Further downstream, the creek continues to carry sediment that was mobilized during yesterday’s rapid drawdown.

Crews are also monitoring changes to the creek channel near the reservoir, where a small portion of the stream has shifted toward the parking area. Caution tape and restricted access remain in place around affected areas. Members of the public are reminded to stay clear of the area, as reservoir elevations and stream flows below the dam may change without notice while recovery efforts continue.

Lower Valley Energy has now developed the next phase of the recovery effort. A specialized contractor is scheduled to arrive on Monday, July 20, to remove the hydroelectric generator from the upper powerhouse. Once the generator has been removed, crews will be able to route water through the powerhouse instead of the damaged gate. This will allow the reservoir to be lowered enough to expose the damaged gate for a detailed inspection and the development of a permanent repair plan.

Today, crews are also utilizing underwater camera equipment to obtain the first visual assessment of the damaged gate. This inspection will help engineers better understand the extent of the damage and refine the repair approach.

Lower Valley Energy continues to coordinate closely with federal and state regulatory agencies, including the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), throughout the assessment and recovery process.

“Our employees and contractors continue to make steady progress each day,” said Travis Prairie, Chief Executive Officer of Lower Valley Energy. “While there is still significant work ahead, we now have a clear path toward exposing the damaged gate, completing a full inspection, and beginning repairs. We appreciate the patience and understanding of our members and the community as we work safely through this process.”

Additional updates will be provided as new information becomes available.