May 18, 2013
August 31, 2012
Tallahassee -- With the start of Labor Day weekend, City of Tallahassee Utilities advises residents to be aware of below-normal water levels at Lake Talquin. Boaters especially should exercise caution as tree stumps and other potentially dangerous obstructions may be closer to or above the surface as a result of the reduction of the lake level.
In anticipation of heavy rain from Tropical Storm Isaac, the City’s Electric Utility, which operates the Talquin Dam, lowered the level of the reservoir approximately two feet over a three-day period. The action was a precautionary measure to allow the lake to hold additional water and, thereby, reduce potential flooding in adjacent areas and downstream.
“Fortunately, the track for Isaac shifted to the west and our area didn’t receive the amount of rain forecasted by the National Weather Service said Triveni Singh, manager of Power Production for the City’s Electric Utility. “We always want to take the steps necessary to protect people and property, and did so as the threat of Isaac approached. We just want boaters to know to use extra caution until rainfall and inflow from the Ochlockonee River allows the lake to reach its normal level of 68.5 feet."
During regular operations of the hydroelectric plant, the lake level normally stays at 68.5 feet. In emergencies or when heavy rain is expected, the Electric Utility may draw down the lake from several inches to two feet to accommodate additional water inflow and reduce potential impacts from flooding.
The roughly 10,000-acre reservoir, located about 10 miles west of Tallahassee, was created by the Jackson Bluff Dam. The City operates the C. H. Corn Hydroelectric Station located at the dam for the purpose of generating a small amount of electricity depending upon the availability of water. Aside from its role in producing electricity, the lake offers numerous recreational opportunities, such as fishing, boating and waterskiing.
One of only two hydroelectric plants in Florida, the C.H. Corn facility helps further the City’s commitment to utilize renewable energy sources and protect the environment. It’s all part of what makes Tallahassee the #1 Public Utility in America.
For more information, call 891-4YOU (4968) or visit Talgov.com/YOU.
