System-Wide Low-Flow Management Plan, Mississippi River above St. Paul, MN

The hydropower facilities on the Mississippi River licensed by the FERC are required to operate "run-of-river," meaning that instantaneous inflow equals instantaneous outflow to the greatest extend possible. The purpose of this low-flow plan is to help ensure that “run-of-river” operations are strictly maintained during periods of low flow to minimize artificial flow fluctuations and protect the aquatic resources and other values of this nationally important river. Collaboration with other water users has proven to be instrumental in communicating the potential for negative impacts on their operations.