The Lake Panorama experience has been a mixed bag this summer for people who enjoy spending time out on the water.

The Lake Panorama Association made the difficult decision to close down lake operations for five days back in June after heavy rains caused large amounts debris to disperse throughout the lake.  Due to large floating hazards and beach debris, boats were kept off the water during that time.

That heavy precipitation the area saw back in June is long gone, and moderate drought conditions have officially taken effect in Guthrie County.  The Lake is below the normal pool level for this time of year as a result of the prolonged dry weather.

Association General Manager John Rutledge says boat owners must now be wary of another problem that could arise in a few weeks if the water level continues to dwindle.

“People’s boats could actually become stranded on their lifts, and it’s not a rapid occurrence, but it’s something we need to be aware of so that it doesn’t catch us by surprise.  So we’re just trying to make people aware of it, we don’t think it’s gonna happen immediately but it’s something to keep our eye on and make sure that you can get your boat off for fall winterization.”

Rutledge says that while the lake hasn’t seen such a problem during his time as general manager, it has happened a few times in the past, and the goal is to prevent it from happening again.

Rutledge encourages all residents to get out on Lake Panorama to enjoy the last few weekends of summer as we begin to settle into the swing of the school year.