Our mission is to obtain a consistent release of coldwater (55 Deg F) from the Francis E Walter Reservoir (FEW) through better utilization of FEW’s storage capacity and discharge options, in an effort to improve overall flows, protect habitat and enhance the Lehigh River’s wild trout fishery.

1) Assist the Army Corps of Engineers -Philadelphia District (ACOE) to obtain federal funding for the performance of necessary studies and modeling to determine the maximum lake elevation that will not jeopardize the primary purpose of FEW, which is flood control. Studies and Modeling are to focus on the following:    a) To sustain a release of 55 deg F water from FEW.    b) Sustain a release of water not to exceed 65 deg F during         white water release weekends (22 days).    c) Investigate optimal minimum releases and the required volume of coldwater pool         to sustain releases during the critical summer months necessary for trout survival.    d) Studies to provide conclusions and findings on limiting factors, recommended         improvements to FEW (if necessary), additional recreational benefits to raising         lake elevation, and economic benefits of implementation of those findings. 2) Provide assistance in obtaining non-federal sponsor for necessary studies and modeling. 3) Provide assistance to ACOE in development of a “Scope of Work” prior to initiation of      necessary studies and modeling. 4) Provide awareness of economic benefits to operational changes with FEW to Congressional and      State Legislators as well as local governments and chambers of commerce. 5) Obtain support from various user groups of the Lehigh River.