Name:	MrHodja -	Reply
Subject:	Who pulled that out of their Wazoo?
Date:	8/3/2010 7:26:58 AM

The members of the panel identified multiple problems that could result from the changes.

Bayne said a change in water level could move the transition zone, where the Tallapoosa River becomes Lake Martin, upstream.

“The reason that’s important is you get a lot of sedimentation in the transition zone,” he said.

Sedimentation could increase throughout the lake if the water level is increased, according to Jim Ruane of Reservoir Environmental Management Inc. That increased sedimentation would lead to eutrophication, which is a build-up of plant nutrients in the water.

While Lake Martin is an exceptionally clean lake, eutrophication could cause algae or weed growth in some areas of the lake."

Name:	Lake Magazine -	Reply
Subject:	Who pulled that out of their Wazoo?
Date:	8/3/2010 6:53:31 PM

From the same Dadeville Record article:

“The panel members agreed that changes to the current rule curve are possible with little to moderate negative environmental impact, although they were hesitant about the later fall drawdown. Whatever changes are made, the panel agreed that careful monitoring should be conducted for several years after the new license takes effect in 2013. The members also said an “exit plan” should be available, in case the changes have a significant impact.”

I attended the meeting and wrote the article for the Outlook and the Record. It was a good meeting – very positive and laid-back. From a water quality standpoint, the panel members seemed to be in agreement that lowering the water level is a possibility. However, other factors must be considered in the proposed water level changes, including but not limited to recreation, economics, erosion and downstream flooding. 

Hope this helps.