Published: July 02, 2008 02:51 pm            

TVA tributary reservoir levels remain below normal

Submitted by the Tennessee Valley Authority



TVA is asking boaters to be extra careful on TVA reservoirs during the July 4 holiday and throughout the summer because continuing drought conditions have left water levels on tributary reservoirs below normal for this time of year.

During low water conditions, more boating hazards are exposed, including rocks, stumps, sandbars and shoals. Low water levels also contribute to increased boat congestion and may make launching boats more difficult at some boat ramps.

Because of the hazards, boaters are urged to use caution at all times, especially if they are unfamiliar with the reservoir.

Drought conditions during the past year continue to affect the region. Water levels on the 10 largest TVA tributary reservoirs are an average of 7 feet below normal for this time of year. Because of a lack of rainfall in Upper East Tennessee, the level of South Holston Reservoir near Bristol is about 17 feet below normal. Levels on Tennessee River reservoirs, which do not fluctuate as much as tributary reservoir levels, are near normal.

During the first six months of the year, the Tennessee Valley received an average of 21 inches of rainfall, which is 77 percent of normal. Runoff -- water that reaches reservoirs after it rains -- has totaled 10.4 inches through June 30, which is 64 percent of normal. Hydro production for 2008 is 58 percent of normal.

TVA is continuing to manage river flows to protect water quality, aquatic habitat and commercial navigation on the Tennessee River system and to ensure that municipalities and industries have access to the water they need.

Information about current reservoir levels, a three-day forecast for levels and observed rainfall are posted daily on TVA’s Web site at www.tva.com/river.

TVA is the nation’s largest public power provider and is completely self-financing. TVA provides power to large industries and 159 power distributors that serve approximately 8.8 million consumers in seven Southeastern states. TVA also manages the Tennessee River and its tributaries to provide multiple benefits, including flood damage reduction, navigation, water quality and recreation.

        

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