Floodgates open into Grand Canyon on Monday

By: Nick Blumberg on 11/19/2012

For the first time in four years, the federal government will simulate a flood in the Grand Canyon. KJZZ's Nick Blumberg has more.

Earlier this year, the Department of the Interior announced a plan to release water from the Glen Canyon Dam into Colorado River running through the Grand Canyon. Monday, the floodgates are set to be opened.

The project aims to restore habitats, sandbars, and beaches that have been damaged or lost because of the dam. It's also hoped the simulated flood will conserve sediment and improve vegetation along the riverbank. The release of water will continue through Friday.

The Interior Department has a plan for regular simulated floods in the Grand Canyon, through the year 2020. 

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