News Talk 94.1/AM 1600 Where The Upper Cumberland Talks
Center Hill Lake levels will return to normal this upcoming recreation season for the first time in 12 years.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers received approval to resume normal operations as a dam safety rehabilitation project begins to wind down.
As part of a risk reduction measure during the project, the Corps has operated Center Hill within a targeted pool elevation between 618 and 630 feet. A return to normal operations means the summer pool elevation will rise between 640 and 648 feet.
Project Manager Jill Kelley said water supply users downstream will likely see reductions in taste and odor issues, improved water treatment, and reduced treatments costs due to increased flows in the Cumberland River during the summer and fall.
In addition, she said recreation on Center Hill will benefit from higher pool elevations during peak recreation season. Downstream recreation will also benefit from improved water quality conditions and more consistent flow patterns.
