Lake CdA drawdown to start

The annual drawdown of Lake Coeur d’Alene and the Spokane River behind the Post Falls Dam will begin Tuesday.

Avista Utilities will lower the water level by about 1.5 feet per month over the next few months, with the rate depending on weather conditions, Avista said in a news release. By the end of the year, the lake will be drawn down from its current level of almost 2,128 feet above sea level to 2,122 feet.

Avista manages the lake level to balance summer recreation with power production. The company said shoreline property owners and boaters should prepare for the drawdown, and recreational users should be aware that water levels may change suddenly.

Avista has a 24-hour telephone information line about anticipated elevation changes. In Idaho, call (208) 769-1357. In Washington, call (509) 495-8043.