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2006 Flood Press Releases
Kootenai River Dike Damage Assessment Map
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To: Public Notice
From: Dean Satchwell
CC:
Dave Kramer, Boundary County Emergency Management
Director Date: 6/12/2006 1700
Hrs. (5:00 P.M.) Re: Kootenai River Information (Boundary County) Recent weather forecasts
include a potential for significant rainfall in the Kootenai River basin tonight
and mid-week which could cause a rise in water level in Boundary County.
The current river level at Bonners Ferry is 1762.43. Should the predicted
rainfall occur, the Kootenai River in Boundary County could reach the 1764 foot
elevation (flood stage) early Thursday, June 15. Then on Friday June 16, 2006
the water level is expected to reach 1765.9. The river water level is measured
from sea level. Depending upon the duration of the rainfall, the river could
continue to rise through Friday morning. The
flood stage level does not mean there is a threat of water going over
dikes/levees or any dike/levee failures. Boundary County
Commissioners are considering an emergency ordinance prohibiting private
powerboats from accessing the Kootenai River during this time of high water.
The ordinance would help ensure safety of the public and personnel
conducting work along the riverbanks and dike system, as well as help reduce
damage to the river banks. Plans are in place for
sandbagging low-lying portions of the City of Bonners Ferry should it become
necessary. The Army Corp of
Engineers is continuing to place rock on the north side dike/levee in Bonners
Ferry, as well as working with local officials to provide technical assistance. County Emergency Management
officials are advising farmers and ranchers with property that could be affected
by seepage or high water tables to be aware that livestock and equipment might
need to be moved to higher ground and to plan accordingly.
Landowners who have experienced any losses or any type of damage during
the periods of high river levels are asked to report the damages to the Boundary
County Agricultural Extension Office (208) 267-3235.
Reports are voluntary and will be used to monitor overall conditions
within the county; they will not constitute a request for any type of
assistance. Boundary County Emergency
Management is working with the Army Corp of Engineers and Idaho Bureau of
Homeland Security on an assessment of damage caused by high river flows
resulting in crop damage, loss of farm land and damage to the levees. Depending
on the preliminary damage assessment the State of Idaho, on behalf of the
county, may request a Presidential Disaster Declaration which may allow the
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to participate in our current damage
problems. Boundary County Emergency
Management is also looking at options for mosquito abatement due to predictions
of high mosquito populations as a result of the higher water levels.
Panhandle Health District has been involved in planning for mosquito
control. See the attached news
release from the health district for additional information. |