Lake Martin Almost Down To Winter Level Because Of Drought

For the first time, water levels at Lake Martin were supposed to stay higher throughout the fall than in years past.

Alabama Power was going to delay the usual fall drain on the lake, but a complete lack of rain changed those plans.

People around the lake are surprised at just how far it’s dropped.

“This time of year, yes. I love crappy fishing and last year this time I did very well. By it being so low, it’s kind of having an effect. It’s been worse before, but this time of year, I wasn’t expecting it,” said Sidney Johnson.

Lake Martin is already three feet lower than this time last year, and it’s almost at the winter level already.

While it’s hard to miss the big change in water levels, businesses in the area say the warm weather is still keeping people out on the water.

“Really we haven’t had a shortage of people still wanting to be out on the lake. What we have had a problem with is getting the boats in and out because the water is so low,” said Selena Bunn with Russell Marine.

Russell Marine in Alex City usually sees a drop in boat sales, but there are still a fair amount of people coming into the marina.

The business was optimistic about the lake staying at summer levels into the fall.

“Well being the first year to keep it up longer, we weren’t really sure what to expect. But, since the drought happened it really hasn’t changed from the year before,” said Bunn.

“And I think we’re a little disappointed, we were looking forward to having the weather here a little longer, the lake being up, but you deal with it and move on,” said Lisa Peffer who also works at the store.