Low Water Levels Pose Concern for Island Lake Residents

Docks, Boats Difficult to Put in Water

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Bone dry is bad news in Minnesota as this year’s drought is causing the water to quickly creep away. 

The water levels at Island Lake are so low a majority of residents aren’t able to put their dock or boats in.

A ring on the lake’s rocky edges now marks the height these waters once reached. 

Although the perfect storm of dry conditions isn’t exactly what Island Lake resident, Jake Ball, had in mind he is certainly making the best of it. 

“Last time it was low we had a volleyball net out and played,” said Ball. 

The current water line is not desirable for boating.

“I won’t put a boat in the water.  I’ve learned that lesson. You’ll find a stump or a rock that’ll take out your propeller at the minimum.”

The recent rainfall added 2 feet of water. 

But, makes more work for those who have their docks in.

“I remember one year I moved it 5 times before it reached it’s level.”

“We all want to see Island Lake Reservoir refill for the summer,” said Manager of Corporate Communications with Minnesota Power, Amy Rutledge.

Minnesota Power relies on Inland Lake to generate electricity and officials there are being proactive because of the reduced water supply. 

“We stopped our winter draw down about 2 weeks early allowing more water to stay in the reservoir,” said Rutledge.

All while keeping the beauty of this man made lake. 

“We are letting out the minimal amount of discharge that we can release,” said Rutledge. 

Minnesota Power says they aren’t completely sure when the water levels will come back to average and say it’s in Mother Nature’s hands.

It was the driest September through April on record in the Duluth area.