Minnesota Power says floodwaters apparently have crested and water levels are starting to drop at its reservoirs in northeastern Minnesota. The reservoirs are along the St. Louis and Cloquet rivers. Minnesota Power says that should alleviate some of the flooding in low-level areas downstream from Island Lake, Boulder Lake, Whiteface, Fish Lake and Rice Lake reservoirs. Since last week's flood, Minnesota Power has been operating its Thomson, Scanlon, Knife Falls, Island Lake and Fond Du Lac dams under an emergency plan for high flows. Gates have been opened to allow for large volumes of water to move quickly through the watershed to ensure the dams' integrity. When the high water flows decrease, the company will close gates at the reservoirs, which will help alleviate flooding. Forecast dry weather should help.
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