The U.S. Forest Service is scheduling a significant water drawdown beginning the first week of December for Indian, Tipsaw and Saddle Lakes in the Hoosier National Forest.
The reduction, expected to drop water levels by approximately five to ten feet, will restore the lakes’ capacity to store runoff in preparation for heavier precipitation later in winter and spring.
This strategy supports the lakes’ original purpose as flood-control reservoirs.
By lowering the water now, the reservoirs can hold more water during future rain and melting cycles, reducing the risk of flooding.
The lowered lake levels will also affect recreational access.
Boat launches will likely be unusable throughout winter until spring rains refill the lakes.
Over the colder months, freezing along the lake edges is expected to help kill off non-native aquatic vegetation, including Eurasian water milfoil.
This, in turn, should lead to healthier aquatic ecosystems and a better experience for visitors once water levels recover.
The Forest Service is advising the public to check its website for ongoing status updates on the lake conditions.
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