The water level at Lake Martin is dropping due to the drought conditions.  Currently, it is 8 feet below full pool.  This presents a new look and some obstacles to everyone.  The good news...beaches on the shoreline and the islands are exposed and potential buyers can get a good look at what's in front of a particular property.  The bad news...some docks are out of the water; a few boat ramps cannot be used; and there are some unmarked hazards for boaters. 

The lake level is controlled by Alabama Power Company.  They, in turn, must comply with certain federal guidelines that require a minimum flow rate beyond Martin Dam.  Unfortunately, the Tallapoosa River and all the streams that feed it (and Lake Martin) are substantially lower because of the drought.  There is less water coming in to the lake and water still must leave the lake.  In addition, we have the heat factor which contributes to evaporation.  All told, there's not much we can do to change the water level this summer.

Even with lower lake levels, this is still a beautiful place -over 40,000 acres of surface area, 700+ miles of shoreline (mostly undeveloped), sandy beaches, clear blue water, bald eagles, red foxes, wild turkeys, great blue herons, coyotes, and lots more provide just the right ingredients for some terrific memories.