MINNEAPOLIS (AP) - A lack of moisture across Minnesota means that the state’s lakes are seeing below-average water levels, and has some boating enthusiasts hoping for rain.
The Star Tribune reported (https://strib.mn/1xNWZH7 ) that as of Friday, the Twin Cities area is in its ninth-driest year in 145 years, and 92 percent of the state was in a moderate drought. The weather is a dramatic shift from last year, when record-high water levels led to boating restrictions on some lakes.
Meteorologist Paul Douglas said the state needs 2 to 6 inches of rain to pull out of the drought. Until then, the state Department of Natural Resources is advising boaters to be aware of low water levels, which can damage propellers and boats.
“If this was toward Memorial Day and the lake was like this, I’d be concerned,” said Tom Jacob, owner of the Bay to Bay Boat Club on Lake Minnetonka. “I’m hoping for rain - just not like Noah’s ark last year.”
Still, he said, it’s too early in the season to worry.
Stan Linell, the DNR’s boat and water safety manager, said docks could be placed out father than usual because of the low water levels. He said until lakes reach normal conditions, boaters should slow down and wear a life jacket - especially because water temperatures remain dangerously cold.
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Information from: Star Tribune, https://www.startribune.com
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