The start of Summer Level Management arrived late on Wednesday, 5/24/17, with the installation of all stanchions and the first layer of stop logs on the north side. The lake level is now reported at 406.38′. Should be no problem reaching the scheduled summer level of 407.25′ by June 1st.
Alliance Report
Westward Shores Floods More Frequently Than Previously Reported
State data shows Westward Shores Campground experienced floodwaters on at least 116 days between 2000 and the end of 2016, a much higher number of occurrences than previously reported. The revised number was computed from state data after pictures and videos last week showed extensive flooding while the lake level was approximately a foot lower than what was thought to be the flooding benchmark.
Visuals Show Westward Shores Is Flooded at Levels Lower Than Previously Thought
Despite a moderate spring snowmelt, less than an inch of rain, and a lake level well under the 410 mark, Westward Shores has muddy roads, soggy campsites, and a Peninsula covered with water where the business wants to install 15 year-round RV rental units. Photos and videos this week validate long-time lake residents’ claims that the campground floods when the water exceeds 409′, not 410′ as previously thought.
The Smart Report: Ice-Out 2017
There won’t be an “official” ice-out date this year, but Broad Bay’s Bob Smart has declared today at 3 p.m. will be the “unofficial” point at which the lake and bays can be said to be ice-free.
Country Ecology: Song Sparrows
Although song sparrows are partly migratory–depending upon the severity of the winter experienced–I welcome them back as early as I can see them. How far this little sparrow migrates may only be a few days’ flying time away.