Boaters should be aware of the changing water levels. Underwater obstructions such as stumps and submerged objects could now be just below the water’s surface. Extra care should be taken at night. Boaters unfamiliar with the areas should decrease their speed and use caution.
News release from NIPSCO:
U.S. Fish & Wildlife Orders NIPSCO to Maintain Water Flows Through Oakdale Dam, Resulting in Lower Levels at Lake Freeman
• Decision Made by Federal Agency to Help Protect Endangered Species
• Record Low Rainfalls and Droughts Across Midwest to Blame
• NIPSCO Working with State Officials to Attempt to Resolve Complex Issue
MERRILLVILLE – U.S. Fish & Wildlife has ordered Northern Indiana Public Service Company (NIPSCO) to maintain water flows through its Oakdale Hydroelectric dam, which will result in the lowering of Lake Freeman water levels.
The decision to supply additional water to the river below the lake was made by the federal agency to help protect a variety of mussels, including the fanshell mussel, which are listed on the federal endangered species list.
It is expected that, if the current flows are continued, lake levels will be lowered by one fifth of a foot by 9 a.m. on Sunday (July 8) and at least one foot by Monday morning.
The mussels, which reside along the river beds, have been placed in immediate danger as a result of the record low rainfalls and drought experienced at Lake Freeman and across the entire Midwest.
While NIPSCO does not want to harm any endangered species or the local environment, the company is concerned for the potential impact on public safety, boaters, recreation and the local economy as a result of lowering the lake levels.
"We've been put in a difficult situation, where there are negative consequences no matter what action is taken," said Mike Finissi, NIPSCO chief operating officer. "Ultimately, U.S. Fish & Wildlife made the final decision."
NIPSCO only operates the hydroelectric dams to produce electricity. By law, the company cannot control the water levels or the flow of water through the river unless federally mandated to do so.
NIPSCO continues to work with state agencies to attempt to resolve the complex issue.
For any questions or concerns, local residents and businesses are requested to contact Fish & Wildlife at 620 South Walker Street, Bloomington, IN 47403-2121, via phone at 812-334-4261 or fax at 812-334-4273.
NIPSCO, with headquarters in Merrillville, Ind., is one of the seven energy distribution companies of NiSource Inc. (NYSE: NI). With more than 786,000 natural gas customers and 457,000 electric customers across the northern third of Indiana, NIPSCO is the largest natural gas distribution company, and the second largest electric distribution company, in the state. NiSource distribution companies serve 3.8 million natural gas and electric customers primarily in seven states. More information
about NIPSCO is available at www.nipsco.com
