SPILL

(1) To cause or allow to run or fall from a container unintentionally so as to be lost or wasted. (2) With respect to a dam and reservoir system, the water passed over a spillway without going through turbines to produce electricity. Spill can be forced, when there is no storage capability and flows exceed turbine capacity, or planned, for example, when water is spilled to enhance fish passage or to support other downstream uses (e.g., agriculture, wetland maintenance, etc.).