The Spokane River in Post Falls is open for recreating.

Avista Corp., said Wednesday that river recreation is permitted between the Spokane Street Bridge and the boater safety cables located just upstream of the Post Falls Dam.

River flows have dropped sufficiently to allow all of the spill gates at the hydroelectric facility to be closed.

The city of Post Falls boat launch and swim beach at Q'emiln Park is open, too.

Typically, it occurs sometime between Memorial Day and the July 4 holiday, and on average about June 22.

Dave Fair, parks and recreation director for the city of Post falls, said this is one of the earliest opening dates of the Q'emiln boat launch facility.

"It opened a little earlier than this in 2005 and once before that," he said. "But it's definitely one of the earliest times."

Parking fees will remain the same this year, he added. Fees start at $3 for a car all day, and $2.50 after 3 p.m. Boat trailer parking is $6 all day, and $5 after 3 p.m.

But below normal spring precipitation and snow pack have resulted in below normal river inflows into Lake Coeur d'Alene, thereby stabilizing summer water level earlier than usual.

Summer operation at the dam should continue through Labor Day, weather permitting.

For elevation changes on Lake Coeur d'Alene, Lake Spokane and the Spokane River, call Avista's 24-hour telephone information line, 769-1357.