Persistent drought conditions are prompting temporary changes to recreational water releases below Remmel Dam as Entergy Arkansas works to balance environmental needs and protect water resources for the long term.

Current lake conditions continue to show the effects of limited rainfall across the region, with Lake Ouachita remaining below normal operating levels.

“With the severe drought going on, Lake Ouachita’s level is about 2.5 feet below its target level,” said Blake Hogue, Entergy Arkansas lakes manager.

Because of those lower lake levels, Entergy Arkansas is making temporary adjustments designed to preserve water and maintain the health of the broader river system.

“We’ve temporarily paused recreational water releases from Remmel Dam due to severe to extreme drought conditions,” Hogue said.

The temporary changes include suspending scheduled weekend recreational flows along with special whitewater and training releases. However, the river system is still receiving the minimum flow necessary to support ongoing environmental requirements.

Hogue said the goal is larger than simply managing current conditions — it is also about preserving resources for the future.

“This is about protecting long-term water levels and ensuring the health of the Ouachita River and Lake Ouachita,” Hogue said.

Entergy Arkansas is continuing to work with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and other partners under a Federal Energy Regulatory Commission approved drought plan that helps guide decisions during extended dry periods.

Acting now helps protect the balance between recreation opportunities and the long-term sustainability of the area’s natural resources.

“Conserving water now helps protect the lake, the river ecosystem and future recreation,” Hogue said.

The decision also supports long-term energy needs. Water stored in Lake Ouachita serves an important role in hydroelectric generation, particularly during periods of increased electricity use. Typically, water is stored from October through June during wetter months and periods of lower electricity demand, helping ensure enough water is available for power generation during the drier summer months when customer demand for electricity is often at its highest. In an effort to provide Better Power as part of Entergy Arkansas’s Next Generation Arkansas vision, proper lake levels need to be protected so we can provide reliable power for our customers.

Although rainfall may provide some short-term relief, officials say meaningful recovery will require considerably more than a few scattered storms.

“We probably need more like 10 to 20 inches of rain to get us out of this severe drought,” Hogue said.

Hogue said safety remains a major consideration as conditions continue changing.

Low water levels can create obstacles and expose hazards that may not typically be visible, while sudden changes in water flow can create challenges for less experienced users.

“Safety is our top priority,” Hogue said. “Low water can create hazards, and higher, unscheduled flows can require more experience.”

Entergy Arkansas recognizes the impact these changes can have on local recreation and tourism communities.

“We know these releases are important to paddlers, outfitters and local businesses,” Hogue said. “This isn’t a decision we take lightly, and we understand the impact on the recreation community.”

Entergy Arkansas will continue monitoring drought conditions and lake levels and plans to resume normal scheduling when conditions improve. People with questions regarding shoreline or lake-related concerns can email [email protected].