Community asked to help lessen impact of drought on Catawba-Wateree River lakes

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CHARLOTTE, N.C. - In response to drought conditions in the region, Duke Energy is requesting lake neighbors who withdraw water from the Catawba-Wateree lakes for irrigation to voluntarily limit watering to Tuesdays and Saturdays.

"“Despite recent rainfall, the region continues to experience dry conditions,"” explained Joe Hall, lake services director. "We want to thank residents for supporting water conservation efforts and ask everyone withdrawing water for irrigation from one of the 11 Catawba-Wateree lakes to limit watering to the two designated days per week,”" Hall added.

The request comes as part of a collective effort by municipal water suppliers, state and federal resource agencies, and Duke Energy to preserve and protect water resources in the Catawba-Wateree River Basin. The Catawba-Wateree Drought Management Advisory Group (CW-DMAG) recently announced Stage 1 conditions of a regional drought protocol.

With decreasing lake levels due to the drought conditions, Duke Energy has increased surveillance of its public boating access areas along the lakes. To ensure the safety of boaters and protect property, some boat ramps will be closed due to these declining lake levels. At this time, the following Duke Energy-managed boat ramps have been closed:

  • Lake Wylie
    • Allison Creek Access Area – two ramps (of four)

"“Boaters and other recreational users are encouraged to exercise caution and examine their surroundings for potential hazards when on area lakes and waterways,"” noted John Crutchfield, public safety and recreation director. "“Additional hazards can be present just below the water’s surface due to the lower lake levels.”"

Duke Energy also encourages the community to be mindful of its water use, as well as consider using less energy, which also helps saves water. Examples of ways to limit energy use during the summer months include:

  • Set your thermostat to the highest comfortable setting
  • Consider using a fan to maintain comfort when you raise the temperature on your thermostat
  • Keep air filters clean
  • Switch incandescent bulbs to cooler CFLs or LEDs

Duke Energy will continue to closely monitor lake levels and work in coordination with the DMAG to address the drought conditions.

Lake levels and access area ramp information is available online at www.duke-energy.com/lakes.

Headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., Duke Energy is a Fortune 250 company traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol DUK. More information about the company is available at duke-energy.com.