Entergy will lower Lake Hamilton by 3 feet and and Lake Catherine by 5 feet in November as part of its annual "drawdown" to allow for shoreline maintenance and inspection.
The drawdowns at the two Hot Springs lakes will begin Nov. 6 and run through Nov. 12, generating hydroelectric power as the water falls at a rate of 4 to 6 inches a day. Boaters are advised to use caution as the water depth decreases. Some floating docks may need to be moved, Entergy said.
Officials say the lowered water levels allow for maintenance and inspection by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. Officials will also work to control nuisance aquatic vegetation. Lake Catherine is being lowered more than Lake Hamilton so a new boat ramp at Remmel Dam Park can be built.
The utility said in a news release that it plans to conduct future seasons on an alternating pattern of 3- and 5-foot drawdowns.
"Alternating the drawdown depths helps prevent any one vegetation species from adapting to a particular depth," the release said. "Annual inspections will continue to verify this plan is working, and adjustments to the long-range plan will be made as needed to do what is best for overall lake management."
The lakes will be returned to their summer levels in early March 2010.
Further information on the drawdown is available by calling (501) 844-2148 or visiting the hydro operations website at www.entergy.com/hydro.