Avista to begin lake drawdown

POST FALLS - Avista will begin its annual fall drawdown of Lake Coeur d'Alene on Tuesday.

The lake will be gradually lowered about a foot from full pool by the end of September, and an additional 1 foot per month thereafter until reaching its winter level.

Property owners and boaters should take measures to secure docks and boats for the winter season during this period.

Avista is required to maintain the level of Coeur d'Alene Lake at summer full pool elevation of 2,128 feet from as early as practical in the spring until the Tuesday after Labor Day.

The slow drawdown will increase flows of the Spokane River downstream of Post Falls and will slightly decrease river levels between the lake and Post Falls bridge.

Spillgates at Post Falls Dam will not be opened for the drawdown, and the river should remain open for recreation until November.

Info: 769-1357

Monday will be the last day lifeguards will be on duty at the beach at Q'emiln Park in Post Falls.

The unguarded beach will remain open until the gates at the dam are opened by Avista Utilities.