Dear Yadkin-Pee Dee Hydro Project Stakeholders:
Just a reminder that Duke Energy Progress, LLC (Duke Energy) will be drawing Lake Tillery down beginning October 16, per FERC License requirements. Below are details regarding the drawdown.
During October and November 2023, Duke Energy will be lowering Lake Tillery from 6 to 8 feet below full pond level (Normal Full Pond = 100.0 ft) to comply with requirements in the Yadkin-Pee Dee Hydroelectric Project License, issued in 2015, that a drawdown occurs every 5 years. This was last completed in 2018. The drawdown will begin on October 16 and extend until November 10. The duration of the drawdown and the time required to refill the lake will depend on weather conditions and river inflows. Please note if there are extreme drought conditions during the scheduled drawdown period (i.e., Low Inflow Protocol in effect), Duke Energy will evaluate and may cancel and reschedule the drawdown event. Please note that minimum flow requirements at the Tillery and Blewett Falls developments will be maintained during the drawdown event per license compliance terms and conditions.
Property owners are encouraged to use this scheduled time to perform maintenance and/or make modifications to docks and piers. Lake neighbors planning to make modifications are required to complete the Lake Permit Application. Lake neighbors can contact LakeServices@Duke-Energy.com, or 800.443.5193 for an application or visit the Duke Energy Lake Services website to submit an application online. See Permits for Shoreline Activities – Duke Energy (duke-energy.com)
Additionally, Duke Energy, in cooperation with the NC Wildlife Resources Commission, will be inspecting public boat ramps to determine if any maintenance repairs are necessary.
Duke Energy has been communicating the lake drawdown to stakeholders through: 1) Lake Tillery Neighbors website, 2) e-mail notifications to lake neighbors, relicensing stakeholders, and local officials (this email and a previous communication earlier this year), 3) post card mailers to lake residents, 4) special messaging on the Duke Energy website and Lake View app, 5) press releases to local media outlets, and 6) posted signage at public boating access area kiosks.