People spending time at Logan Martin Lake or Coosa River may notice lower lake levels during Alabama’s current dry spell. 

The state is seeing an uncharacteristic drought, which is reducing flows in rivers and streams that feed area lakes. The conditions have resulted in lower levels at Alabama Power reservoirs, prompting action from the company. 

In response to the dry conditions, Alabama Power has minimized water releases from its hydroelectric dams and suspended recreational releases from Jordan Dam on the Coosa River. The company is working with government agencies, municipalities, businesses and industry, and community groups to communicate about the efforts to conserve water. 

“This is the typical time of year our lakes are going down,” Alabama Power spokesperson Michael Sznajderman said. “But this year, we are seeing extraordinarily dry conditions. It was a dry summer, and we have seen it get worse since then.” 

The National Weather Service is forecasting lower-than-normal rainfall for the coming three months. Alabama Power has a drought management plan, which involves several environmental and governmental partnerships, and has been implemented as a result of the forecast. 

“The plan allows us to reduce flows through the dams to the river, helping us conserve water where we can,” Sznajderman said. “There is still water flowing through, but at a lower rate.”

Water levels at Weiss, Neely Henry, and Logan Martin lakes on the Coosa River, Harris and Martin lakes on the Tallapoosa River, and Smith Lake on the Black Warrior River are dropping and are expected to continue their decline. 

Individuals with boats and other water-related equipment and facilities should always be alert to changing conditions, and Sznajderman advises that they monitor water levels carefully.

“People need to be aware of conditions so that they can protect their property,” Sznajderman said. “If there are boats docked, they need to be aware of the changing levels, to ensure their boat won’t be damaged.” 

As far as lake wildlife is concerned, Sznajderman said that no issues have been reported. 

“I have not heard of any issues pertaining to wildlife of water quality,” Sznajderman said. “Alabama Power stays in consultation with the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources to make sure that is monitored closely and everyone stays safe.” 

Alabama Power will continue to monitor conditions on the lakes and manage the limited water resources. To monitor drought conditions in your area, visit droughtmonitor.unl.edu.