The amount of water released into the Missouri River is increasing after August runoff was the third highest in more than a century.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers says boosting releases from four lower dams will prepare the reservoir system for next year's anticipated runoff and reduce flood risks.
Water management chief Jody Farhat says that while the releases are higher than normal for this time of year, the water is expected to remain in the channel unless there is significant additional rain.
The corps says the excess water will allow the corps to extend the navigation season by 10 days, ending Dec. 10. The higher releases also will benefit winter hydropower generation and reduce the risks to water intakes when ice forms.