Kinderhook Lake Corporation will begin the annual fall drawdown at Nivers Dam on Thursday, October 15, under our DEC permit. This is a routine part of managing the lake each year, and we want everyone — especially riparian owners — to have time to prepare.
What to expect
The lake will be lowered to winter level, about 52 inches below summer level. Reaching that level usually takes a few weeks and depends on rainfall, so the drop will be gradual rather than sudden. Refill typically begins in mid-to-late March, but that timing is weather dependent and can happen sooner than expected.
Why we do this
A lower winter lake typically protects docks, bulkheads, and shoreline from ice damage over the winter. It also gives waterfront owners a natural window of time to take on dock repairs or shoreline projects while the water is low.
What to do before the water drops
- Remove boats, lifts, and floating docks from the water.
- Check any water intakes or pumps that draw from the lake.
- Remove or tie down loose furniture and other items on docks to prevent them from being blown into the lakebed over the winter.
- If you’ve been planning shoreline or dock projects, this fall is the time to get it done. Because refill depends on the weather and can arrive earlier than expected, we recommend not counting on a late-winter window.
If you have questions about the drawdown or how it affects your property, please contact a KLC director..
Thank you for helping keep Kinderhook Lake in good shape through the winter.
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