Dominion Energy will begin lowering Lake Murray's water level this fall. The drawdown, in cooperation with the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, will help control aquatic vegetation and maintain water quality.
Dominion says the lake will begin dropping this month and is expected to reach a target elevation of about 350 feet in December. The lake will remain at this level until January.
“Every few years we lower the lake so that we can limit growth of certain aquatic vegetation,” said Dominion Energy South Carolina Vice President of Power Generation Iris Griffin. “If left unchecked, the vegetation can negatively affect water quality and make recreational use of the lake difficult. The drawdown also gives lake residents and businesses an opportunity to perform maintenance and repairs on their private docks or shorelines.”
The lower lake level means many coves and inlets will be shallower than normal. Dominion urges all boaters to use extra caution during this time.
The lake is expected to return to its normal summer level of 358 feet by late spring, depending on rainfall and river flow. Dominion last lowered Lake Murray to 350 feet in January 2023.