Alabama Power has set a tentative schedule this winter for water-level drawdowns on Lake Thurlow, located on the Tallapoosa River. The company is encouraging residents of the lake to contact their Alabama Power Shoreline Management office at 256-825-0053 to obtain permits for anticipated shoreline construction during low-water conditions before beginning work.

Alabama Power plans to lower the lake nearly 10 feet from its normal level during the week beginning Jan. 20. Once the water level reaches an approximate elevation of 279, the company will attempt to hold water levels down before bringing the lake back to normal operations by March 4.

Along with providing a window for permitted shoreline construction, the winter drawdown is aimed at controlling invasive shoreline vegetation by exposing plants to freezing temperatures. Drawdowns on Lake Thurlow have not taken place since 2010 because of weather conditions or other issues.

Individuals with boats and other water-related equipment and facilities should always be alert to changing conditions on Alabama Power reservoirs and be prepared to take the necessary steps to protect their property. To follow the water-level drawdown, residents and contractors are encouraged to visit Alabama Power’s automated Reservoir Information System at 1-800-LAKES11 (1-800-525-3711) or lakes.alabamapower.com  for updates.

Alabama Power has 14 hydroelectric facilities on the Coosa, Tallapoosa and Black Warrior rivers, producing low-cost, clean energy for customers. Permitting guidelines and contact information for permits can also be found on the Shoreline Management page at www.alabamapower.com.