Photo by Canyon Lake Insider.Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District staff will be performing regular inspections on the outlet valves at the Canyon Lake Dam on Wednesday, January 25, and Wednesday, February 8, Customer water service will not be impacted.
The inspections will allow EVMWD to observe and ensure proper function of any components of the mechanical systems.
Sometimes mistaken as ‘flood gates’, these valves located at the base of Canyon Lake Dam are essential for emergency procedures and for releasing sediment. Periodic operation of the valves on the dam not only ensures the reliability of the valves but also has a positive impact on water quality. The flow from the valves creates a scouring effect that removes sediments from the lake floor near the dam and the plant intake barge.
Once the valve inspections are complete, the valves will be opened to ensure proper operation. This will result in a brief release of water that will flush loose sediment and organic materials from the lake’s bottom. These are naturally occurring decaying materials, and they may release a sulfuric or “rotten egg” odor. This occurrence is normal and should subside within a few hours.
For more information, contact EVMWD’s Operations Department at 951-674-3146, ext. 8395.
