Alabama Power plans to temporarily lower the lake level at Thurlow on the Tallapoosa River to give residents a chance to perform maintenance.
Drawdowns give residents and contractors better lakebed access for permitted construction projects. Residents interested in performing shoreline maintenance during this drawdown should apply for the necessary lakeshore use permits by visiting the Alabama Power Shorelines Management Website before beginning any construction along the shoreline.
Beginning Sept. 6, the water level will gradually lower from its normal operating level near 288 feet to near 282 feet by Sept. 8. Refilling will begin Oct. 5 and will return to normal on Oct. 7.
“The drawdown is to allow for inspection and maintenance activities.,” said Lisa Martindale, Alabama Power’s Reservoir Management manager. “Since lake levels will be somewhat lower than normal during this time, we ask that precautions are taken as people continue to enjoy the lake.”
Because weather conditions can affect the drawdown schedule, residents are encouraged to visit Alabama Power Shorelines for updates.
Individuals with boats and other water-related equipment and facilities should always be alert to changing conditions on Alabama Power reservoirs and be prepared to take necessary steps to protect their property.