South Idaho Lake Boat Launching A Hardship Due To Low Waters

Boaters in southern Idaho and other western states have been experiencing difficulties over the past several weeks in getting their vessels wet. It appears that the virtually non-existent winter snowpack has caused many area waterways to significantly drop below average depths as we prepare for the outdoor recreation season.

Fans of water recreation from southern Idaho to western Wyoming are bracing for challenges associated with drought conditions that have persisted for well over a year. Lake shorelines will look different this summer for campers, as many Idaho destinations will have noticeably more exposed lake bed. Launching boats will be tricky at some state lakes.

Boaters at one Twin Falls County lake have already expressed concerns over the 'dangerously low' water levels, and they will get even lower as we get into the late summer months.

Get our free mobile app

Idaho's Salmon Falls Reservoir and Jackson Lake (Wyoming) Are Reporting Dangerously Low Water Levels

Salmon Falls Reservoir is located approximately 40 miles south of Twin Falls, and there have been reports of boaters not being able to navigate the waters due to low water, according to Idaho News 6.

READ MORE: Rare March 80 Degree Heat Aimed At Southern Idaho

Two hundred fifty miles northeast of Twin Falls, and over the Wyoming border, is Jackson Lake. A low water level record set more than a century ago (1919) is on the verge of being broken as state officials are considering draining the body of water rather than face certain risks, according to Jackson Hole News & Guide.

Be safe out on Idaho waters this spring and summer, and pay attention to low water levels.