Officials at Ameren Missouri said the annual winter draw-down at the Lake of the Ozarks is beginning, and they are asking property and dock owners at the lake and along the Osage River to take action as water levels fluctuate.
Ameren generally lowers the water level at the lake during winter months to about 654 feet above sea level — or 6 feet below the full reservoir level of 660 feet — to reduce the possibility of flooding during spring rains. The Osage River level also fluctuates when Ameren’s Bagnell Dam releases water during the draw-down and to meet the demand for electricity.
Bagnell Dam water releases may occur at any time and may result in swift currents and rapidly rising water levels in the Osage. A warning siren will sound from the dam before generators start and stop.
With proper permits, Ameren officials said the winter draw-down is a good time to complete shoreline stabilization projects. Shoreline property owners are asked to get their completed applications in now for evaluation before the low-water season. Rip-rap installation, seawalls and seawall repairs typically take place as lake levels drop and before fish spawning begins in March. More information about shoreline stabilization and permitting forms can be found at AmerenMissouri.com/lake or by calling Ameren’s shoreline office at 573-365-9208.