Still Time, But Hurry!

With the unofficial end of summer only a week away, many are looking for those final days on local waters before time to dock the boats and water toys until the sunny days of 2016. And, while the lake levels on both Douglas and Cherokee are still sufficient to enjoy the last few days of summer 2015, there is no denying that the local lake levels are obviously lower than they were just a few short weeks ago. For the last several years, Tennessee Valley Authority, who controls the levels of the reservoirs, has made an effort to balance the necessary draw downs with recreational interests in the area, meaning that lake levels have stayed sufficient for work and play through Labor Day.

For many that live on and off the main channels, the draw down has come quick. Douglas Peaked at around 995 ft at its summer pool, while Cherokee topped out at 1070 in 2015. Interestingly, though Cherokee’s 2014 and 2015 numbers for end of August are a near match at 1060, the 2014 peak was five feet lower than the high mark of 2015, coming in at only 1065 feet. Douglas is sitting at 985 ft but if 2015 follows 2014’s draw down rates that will not last for long. The levels on both Cherokee and Douglas will continue a steady drop until they reach their lows at around 1045 ft and 950 ft respectively by the end of the year.

But, for now, there is still time and plenty enough water to make for a great last hurrah for summer 2015 and those that mourn the loss of lake season will only have to wait until March to watch the rise of local waters.