Post date: Aug 13, 2014 4:49:20 PM

Johnson Lake levels to drop after Sept. 1

Clipper-Herald staff | Posted: Wednesday, August 13, 2014 4:45 am

Johnson Lake

The implementation of an angler access improvement project near the Johnson Lake’s inlet by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission will cause the lake’s water levels to fluctuate.

The lake will maintain its summer levels until Sept. 1 After this date the Central Nebraska Public Power and Irrigation District will use the lake water to finish the final runs of irrigation season, which will last until Sept. 8.

It is expected Johnson Lake will regain normal water levels until Oct. 8, when more water will be drawn to accommodate the angler access project. It is estimated the lake’s water levels could decline as much as 10 feet below normal lake levels.

Central Nebraska Public Power and Irrigation District Civil Engineer Cory Steinke said that all shore stations would need to be out of the water before October 8.

Nebraska Game and Parks Commission will be working near the inlet structure adding sidewalks, rock shoals and piers near the water’s edge. The project is expected to last into late fall or early winter.

The large water drawdown will provide for maintenance work cabin owners need to do. Land administration staff from Central Nebraska Public Power is prepared to help any customers with obtaining necessary permits in preparation for the project.