(Wahpeton)– The recent hot, dry weather has allowed the Iowa Great Lakes to drop more than a foot after heavy rains in mid-July pushed them to their highest levels in years.
Mike Hawkins of the Iowa Department of Natural Resources says levels peaked July 16th and 17th at about 26.5 inches above crest on West and East Lakes Okoboji. He says they have since dropped about 13 inches and are now about 13 and-a-half inches above crest on the Okoboji’s and about 9 inches above crest on Big Spirit Lake.
Now that the levels have dropped, Hawkins says the 600 foot no wake rule that was implemented last month was rescinded effective this (Tuesday) afternoon. Hawkins says that was based on discussions the DNR has had with Dickinson County Emergency Management. Hawkins says both entities feel “the emergency nature of that rule has passed.” However, Hawkins says lake levels remain relatively high and he says boaters should still be respectful of the wakes they create.
Meanwhile, Hawkins says the DNR continues to assist lakeshore property owners that sustained damage due to the high water.
