Lake Thurlow’s water-level drawdown is expected to end Feb. 21, when it will be brought back to its normal level over a five-day period that ends Wednesday, Feb. 26. The reservoir on the Tallapoosa River was lowered beginning Jan. 20, eventually dropping nearly 10 feet from its normal elevation of 279 feet.

Along with providing a window for permitted shoreline construction, the winter drawdown was aimed at controlling invasive vegetation by exposing plants to freezing temperatures. Similar drawdowns on Lake Thurlow had not taken place since 2010 because of weather conditions and 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. For more updated information, 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.

Alabama Power has 14 hydroelectric facilities on the Coosa, Tallapoosa and Black Warrior rivers producing low-cost, clean energy for customers.