Norris Lake - March 31, 2009
Apparently several rainy days were not enough to satisfy the East TN need for rain. Although Norris lake is now only 10 feet below full summer pool (we're at 1010 ft above sea level), the area has received 35% less rain than is needed at this time of the year. What we experienced last year was a full pool for only a month during the summer and, during the drought of 2007 the lake never reached full pool.
Folks who live on deep year round water will see more shoreline than usual if we don't get up to 1020. But anyone on seasonal water may have not have much this summer if we don't get more rain either here or from states that fill up our rivers and tributaries and, ultimately, the lake. Boaters will have to be aware of water levels to prevent running aground in the back of shallow coves and any shallow bends in the lake and rivers. Let's just all get out there and do a Rain Dance!!
Time to put out the hummingbird feeders as we expect those ruby throated birds to start migrating north during April!