Spillway at Lake Walcott Finished

TWIN FALLS, Idaho (AP) — Water has started to flow from a new $30 million spillway at Lake Walcott State Park.

The new Minidoka dam spillway replaces a 100-year-old spillway made of wood. The new section includes gates that can be operated remotely to control the water in the reservoir.

The new spillway began operating Friday. With all 12 gates open, tens of thousands of cubic feet of water per second can flow to the thirsty agricultural communities in the Mini-Cassia region.

Dan Davidson of the Minidoka Irrigation District says it's a huge improvement. KMVT-TV reports there are still finishing touches to be done, but the work should be completed within the year.