Low Water Levels Expose Boating Hazards

July 3, 2007

TVA is asking boaters to be extra careful on TVA reservoirs during the July 4 holiday and throughout the summer because the lack of rain has left tributary reservoirs an average of 12 feet below normal levels for this time of year.

Scattered thunderstorms during the past few weeks have brought much-needed rain to some local areas in the eastern Tennessee Valley, but drought conditions continue to plague the region. Average rainfall for the six-month period of January through June 2007 was 4.8 inches – 56 percent of normal.

During low water conditions, more boating hazards are exposed, including rocks, stumps, sandbars and shoals. Low water levels also contribute to increased boat congestion and may make launching larger boats more difficult at some ramps.

Because of these hazards, boaters are urged to use caution at all times, especially if they are unfamiliar with the reservoir.

TVA is continuing to manage river flows to protect water quality, aquatic habitat, and commercial navigation on the Tennessee River system and to ensure that municipalities and industries have access to the water they need. Hydropower generation has been cut in half because of the lack of rain.

Information about current reservoir levels, a three-day forecast for levels and observed rainfall are posted daily on TVA’s web site at www.tva.com/river.

TVA is the nation’s largest public power provider and is completely self-financing. TVA provides power to large industries and 158 power distributors that serve approximately 8.7 million consumers in seven southeastern states. TVA also manages the Tennessee River and its tributaries to provide multiple benefits, including flood damage reduction, navigation, water quality and recreation.

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TVA News Bureau, Knoxville, (865) 632-6000

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