(Lewis) The Iowa Department of Natural Resources says water levels in Iowa’s Oxbow lakes are lower than usual due to the continued drought conditions. Iowa Department of Natural Resources Fisheries Biologist Bryan Hayes says this is due to the historic low water flows in the Missouri River.
Hayes says the hot temperatures this week will draw a lot of boaters to the lakes. He says access to the boat ramps at Lake Manawa and Carter Lake could be difficult.
Hayes says access to these lakes is compromised because of the low water levels. He says, for example, Lake Manawa is down about 20 inches.
Hayes says the DNR is prepared to post signs at Lake Manawa indicating load and unload boats at your own risk. Hayes boaters out in the water need to use extra caution as well.
Hayes says trying to predict when water levels will return to normal will be difficult.
