1. When did the issues of Lake level changes arise?

Approximately 10 years ago LMRA, representing its members and all concerned citizens, approached Alabama Power about the present rule curve regulating lake levels on Lake Martin, which had been in effect for over 30 years. LMRA representatives asked Alabama Power if there was a possibility that levels could be changed to meet the increasing demands of recreational use on the lake. The answer was yes.

2. What are the advantages of the proposal to change lake levels?

A positive economic chain reaction... longer periods of high water equates to increased recreational use. Increased recreational use means more people demanding more services... food, lodging, gas, marinas, etc. Higher water levels would also alleviate some shallow areas thereby making the lake safer to navigate.

3. Why did LMRA come up with the present proposed rule curve?

Following a review of historical data and discussions with Alabama Power and other concerned state and federal agencies, LMRA drafted a reasonable proposal for a new rule curve. This proposal was based in consideration of all concerns as well as increased lake use.

4. How could any changes affect our fishery?

We feel an increase in high pool time can only benefit the fishery. LMRA has met with several Department of Conservation and Natural Resource officials over the last five years and their cursory review of our plan indicated that it should help certain fish species including bass and crappie. Lake levels would be more stable allowing better fish spawning periods.

5. Why hasn’t LMRA pursued this issue more vehemently over the past ten years?

As we are all aware, the "Water Wars" with Georgia have been a primary concern for us all. Alabama Power needs to determine first what any effects flow changes might make on this and other lakes in Alabama. LMRA was told that lake level changes on Lake Martin were feasible but APCO must know to what extent the water wars issue would affect quantities of water and river flow. LMRA was asked to hold off until the Water Wars issue could be resolved. LMRA has remained in contact with Alabama Power about this but chose not to be antagonistic in their efforts to push through a level change. As we see it, negotiations are a delicate matter and we believe based on LMRA’s past experiences that our approach will be successful.

6. Why not ask for the winter pool level to be higher so during drought times we are not quite so dependent on as much rainfall to fill our lake?

We originally proposed to APCO that we would like to see the lake recede only 6-8 feet each winter instead of the 10 feet it drops now. APCO studies indicated that due to flood control concerns downstream they need all the flood control capacity they can get. Most people know that with its 44,000 acres Lake Martin has been responsible in the past for a large percentage of downstream flood control. The flood control capacity of Lake Martin was based on data from over 30 years ago when the present flood guidelines were set. We know that from December 15 through February 15 (our current winter drawdown period) that the weather is generally too inclement to enjoy many boating days other than hardcore fishermen who are probably out anyway. Another major concern for some property owners would be if the winter (low pool) lake level were raised it might cause some property owners problems with the erosion of their seawalls. Many walls average 5- 6 feet in height, which means if the winter lake level were raised many seawalls would have waves hitting the footing area causing wall failure. This problem has occurred in other lakes in similar circumstances. A higher winter pool would also cause problems for some property owners who need winter access in order to do shoreline maintenance, install seawalls, and erect or repair piers and docks.

7. Lake Martin, as we all know, is one of the cleanest lakes in the Southeastern United States, if not the cleanest. What effect will changes in lake levels have on the clarity and water purity?

Natural flushing is an obvious benefit to the quality of our water in Lake Martin.
Impurities are flushed out and replaced with fresh water from spring rains. This yearly process continues to have a positive impact on the clarity and purity of our lake water.

8. Certain southern lakes have experienced huge problems with the growth of invasive aquatic weeds such as milfoil, water hyacinth, bydrilla, etc. Will changing the lake levels make our lake more susceptible to the introduction of these species?

No. In fact, it is believed that the winter drawndown of the lake has a positive influence on inhibiting both the introduction and growth of these aquatic weeds. These weeds are often transferred to a lake by their tendrils to another lake by their tendrils being pulled out of an infested lake and carried by natural and artificial means to another lake. However, if the tendrils remain dry for a period of time, they die. Thus, periods of low water are a positive factor.

9. How does LMRA plan to involve members and concerned parties in the ongoing process of lake level discussions?

LMRA produces a quarterly newsletter, which is distributed to all members and available at area businesses for anyone to receive. LMRA also produces a monthly article in Lake Martin Living Magazine. Any news on any issues concerning all citizens is reported. The LMRA coordinator is in the office five days a week and available for all phone calls. All members are encouraged to come to the LMRA office or call to discuss issues or review any documents available. All suggestions and comments are always welcome. We welcome discussion on this issue as well as any other you might have.