Elevation Change from 7/8/11 Summer Max
Mendota 849.77 - 0.08 ft - 0.33 ft
Monona 844.96 - 0.15 ft - 0.24 ft
Waubesa 844.76 - 0.15 ft - 0.24 ft
Kegonsa 843.06 - 0.19 ft - 0.44 ft
We have received 15.97 inches of precipitation since January 1, 2011. This compares to a normal of 18.22 inches for the same time frame. Last year, we received 25.05 inches of precipitation for the same time period.
As lakes are near or below mid range of their respective water levels, we have been slowly stabilizing flow from one lake to the other. We have decreased flow out of Mendota, Waubesa and Kegonsa. The lock gates remain open at Babcock. At Lafollette, lock gates remain closed, and 2 of the 3 bays are closed to flow.
Our weed scout continues to monitor vegetative growth in the river between Lakes Waubesa and Kegonsa on a weekly basis. We will be moving additional harvesters back in to the river this coming week.
People may be observing large weed mats that get caught along the shoreline and piers. These are not rooted plants. Most instances we have observed mats of filamentous algae intertwined with floating vegetation. Wind or precipitation generally will break up these mats. We have been collecting these dense mats in these areas as crews progress around the lakes. However, at times, the wind may push these mats to other areas of the lakes that do not allow us to efficiently pick up in a timely manner for some residents.
We continue to experience large areas of dense native vegetation that may contribute to navigation issues in all lakes. If we do any cutting in these areas, it is for navigation purposes only.
