Corps warns people about low water levels in lakes across the southeast

The Army Corps of Engineers in warning people to be careful on lakes across the southeast this weekend because of the low water levels. This drought hurts folks in all kind of ways. I hope folks can find another place to swim for a while. I hate that the water is so low - but remember, its affecting lifestyles not their livelihoods. We at the mouth of the river need the water to keep flowing. Heres a copy of the Corps press release:


U.S. Army Corps of Engineers encourage visitors at
recreation projects to use caution when boating,
swimming

MOBILE, Ala. - The drought in the Southeastern United States continues to
impact U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Mobile District-managed lakes in
Alabama, Mississippi, Florida and Georgia.
The lakes are experiencing lower than normal summer depths, and this
affects recreation activities for swimmers and boaters.
"Lakeside swimmers and boaters are encouraged to wear their personal
flotation device (PFD) and to take extra special precautions when lower than
normal water levels occur," said E. Patrick Robbins, Chief Public Affairs Officer,
Mobile District.
Swimmers are tempted to go out further into cooler waters which are
unsafe. Many of the designated swim areas are high and dry. This is why the
designated swim area buoys are not moved. The undesignated swim areas do
not provide a level, even beach surface. These hazardous areas may have
unseen drop offs, rocks, stumps, limbs or other hidden hazards.
The extended dry conditions will impact boaters also. Some boat ramps will
have limited use and may be closed later in the summer if the drought
continues.
The low water levels also present boating challenges as navigation hazards
begin to surface.
“The shallower water conditions could expose sandbars or stumps to those
swimming or boating,” Robbins said. “Boaters should be cautious as declining
levels may reduce clearance over underwater obstructions. Swimmers and
boaters should always take precautions on the water even in the best
conditions."
As the drought continues, visitors may see signs at beaches and boat ramps
warning them of low water conditions. Park rangers will monitor swim areas for
emerging hazards and floating debris.
The lakes will experience additional impacts to recreation. The remainder of
the summer will depend on the weather and rainfall to the entire river system.
The lake level forecast can be found at the Mobile District Water
Management Section's homepage at http://water.sam.usace.army.mil. The
Corps also has a toll-free interactive voice phone system that provides daily
readings for selected lakes and gauges at 1-888-771-4601. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers encourages lake visitors to wear their PFD and
take precautions while recreating on the water

Beach and Swimming safety tips
Learn how to swim, but be aware that even good swimmers can drown -- Know
your limits.
Swim with a buddy.
Swim in designated areas only.
Use your head and go feet first into the water.
Leave the water at the first sign of bad weather.
Watch your children – no reading, no phone, no nap.
Safe Boating Tips
Always wear a life jacket when you are on a boat.
Most drowning victims knew how to swim, but did not intend to get in the
water and could not reach their lifejackets in time.
Always boat sober.
Always boat with a friend
Use your running lights from dusk until dawn when you are on the water.
Always let someone on shore know where you plan to take the boat.
Check the weather before you put the boat in the water.
Know and follow the water “rules of the road.”
Learn how to swim.


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