Savannah River Experience Low Levels: What Causes This?

AUGUSTA, Ga. – Recent measurements highlight a significant dip in the levels of Augusta’s local waterways, notably the Augusta Canal and the Savannah River. Despite the recent rainfall, the river level stands at a mere 103 feet. This drop is concerning for local businesses and residents alike.

Impacts on Local Businesses

Local business owner Greg LaBelle, proprietor of Two Dudes and a Boat Kayak Rentals, notes the significant ramifications of the reduced water level. “I’ve lived in the area for 11 years and had the business for four and a half years and have never seen the river as low as it was,” LaBelle said. The lower water levels have led to unexpected complications on his kayak tour, resulting in a negative impact on his business.

Apart from disrupting navigability, the exposed river bed has caused another unforeseen issue. “When the water level goes down, and the river bed is exposed, the smell is awful. It’s so bad,” LaBelle mentioned. Moreover, the shift in the river’s ecosystem has caused an unusual surge in the number of alligators seen on LaBelle’s tour. “On a normal day when we go out, we maybe see one maybe two alligators, and yesterday there were 13,” he added.

The Cause of the Low Levels

Wes Byne from Augusta Utilities reports that the unusual circumstance began with a lightning strike. “During an event the other night, we had a lightning strike on some power lines, and it caused them to lose power to one of the control motors, which drove one of the arms that was left out of the water. As a result, the pools started to drain in an uncontrolled fashion,” he explained.

Although this was an unexpected event, the United States Army Corps of Engineers managed to release more water into the river promptly. Despite these actions, concerns persist among locals like LaBelle, who feels apprehensive about the future. “It’s kind of scary knowing someone has that much control over what my business is based on,” he mentioned.