SEBRING — The drawdown request on Lake Istokpoga was approved earlier this month by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, allowing for the lake to potentially sink down to an elevation of 36 feet if its water is needed for irrigation to the south. Neither Highlands County Lakes Manager Clell Ford nor Trails End Fishing Resort owner Gary Albin has noticed any withdrawals from the lake since the approval. Ford said, however, that the water permit holders to the lake have been allowed to use their permits again on two different days of the week. ...more

January 28, 2008

SEBRING — Residents, fisheries and businesses around Lake Istokpoga are bracing for another drawdown request that will, if granted, last much longer than the one granted this summer. Even though summer rains made it so that Istokpoga's water wasn't needed back then, the latest request could last until the end of next summer, and it would include the water-intensive spring time when growers and landscapers alike use the greatest amount of water. Highlands County Lakes Manager Clell Ford was not sure how great an impact this deviation would have on the lake, but he was certain it would be consequential if it is approved, unlike the last one. South Florida Water Management District, which manages Lake Istokpoga, asked the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers last month to allow for a new drawdown. ...more

November 27, 2007