Muskingum Watershed Lakes Drawdown Set
NEW PHILIADELPHIA — The Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District has released its annual winter drawdown schedule, a critical part of the organization’s flood-control and maintenance operations.
While MWCD lakes attract millions of visitors each year for boating, fishing, camping and hiking, their primary purpose is to protect the Muskingum Watershed region from flooding.
Each winter, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers temporarily lowers lake levels to provide additional flood storage capacity for snowmelt and spring rains. This process also allows MWCD staff to complete shoreline stabilization and other maintenance projects.
“Our engineering team works closely with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to coordinate drawdowns and project schedules,” said Dave Lautenschleger, chief of engineering. “The winter drawdown gives us valuable time to inspect and maintain infrastructure while lake levels are low. By addressing shoreline erosion and dredging in strategic locations, we’re ensuring the lakes remain safe, functional, and sustainable for years to come, while keeping communities downstream protected from potential flooding.”
The 2025-26 drawdown will begin in early November, with water levels expected to return to normal by February.
Area lakes affected are Piedmont Lake, Seneca Lake and Tappan Lake.
During the winter months the following project is slated for Piedmont: Excavation and dredging to remove about 12,750 cubic yards of sediment from Essex Cove, the bay between Hilltop Drive and Lake Ridge Road, and the bay near the Akron Boat Club. The work will improve water depth and navigation for boaters.
(Muskingum WCWD press release)
Barnesville Area News Needs Your Support!
We're dedicated to providing coverage of the local happenings in Barnesville and the neighboring communities.
As a non-profit entity, we rely on the donations of readers like you.
Make a donation today and you'll be helping keep local news alive in the Barnesville area.