Lake Drawdown

11/6 Update: The dam’s valve has been opened. The lake drawdown has begun.
11/15 Update: The lake level is down 18“

By D.Ernes – Lake Management Committee

Our lake is scheduled to be lowered this year on or about November 1^st. Drawing down the lake level has both positive and negative impacts. However, periodic drawdowns are necessary to perform maintenance on individual seawalls and dock areas.

Timing of the drawdown is an important variable. The dredging operation, currently working in the southern end of the lake, cannot continue when the water level is lowered. In addition, the drawdown must be done after the lake turnover. Upon turnover, the low oxygen waters below fifteen feet are mixed with the higher oxygenated surface water, blending the two. If the lake is lowered prior to the turnover, the oxygenated surface water would be eliminated so that, after the turnover, the dissolved oxygen level could be too low to enable the fish population to successfully survive over the winter.

Erosion is a constant issue and, over time, can degrade the integrity of a dock, rip-rap (rock wall) or seawall. Without proper protection from erosion, sediment can then enter the lake, causing build-up on the lake floor that can hamper the ability to properly utilize watercraft. Erosion can also result in a premature failure of the structures. Look for holes or other types of damage in erosion control structures and seek remedies to reinforce them. Reinforcement of shoreline barriers, confirming clear drainage channels, and checking dock supports and surrounding areas safeguards your property as well as the other residents of Lake Roaming Rock.

If you suspect you may have a problem or have identified a problem, contact the Village office or the RRA to inquire about necessary permits and obtain a listing of approved vendors. Also, please consider the addition of rain gardens or buffer zones to your project to help control erosion and reduce nutrients from run-off. Previous articles have discussed each of these items and can be found on the RomeRock Association website under Lake Management.

BE LAKE RESPONSIBLE