Every winter, the water at Lake of the Ozarks drops several feet, and every dock on the lake has to move with it. Docks that are properly prepared are less likely to experience problems as water levels drop. Docks that are not can end up with strained hardware, stressed cables, or damage by spring.
October is the time to get ready. The drawdown creates additional capacity for spring rainfall, helping reduce the risk of flooding. This article explains what the winter drawdown is, why it happens, and what lake property owners can do now to protect their docks and shorelines.
What the Winter Drawdown Is
The winter drawdown is Ameren Missouri’s annual lowering of the lake, from a summer level near 659 feet above sea level to about 654 feet. That is a drop of about five feet.
Ameren generally holds the lake near 659 feet through the summer season. Last winter the main drawdown started January 1, and by the second week of February the lake had reached its winter low. It stays near that level until Ameren raises it to full pool ahead of Memorial Day weekend.
Ameren adjusts levels throughout the season, so exact timing and levels change from year to year.
What It Means for Your Dock
A dock has to follow the water down, and anything that keeps it from moving freely is where damage tends to start. The trouble spots are usually the same few places.
The connection between the dock and the seawall or pier needs hinges, pins, and other hardware that can move as the water level changes. Cables and anchoring need enough slack for the dock to lower, and they should be free of wear and corrosion. Floats should be in good shape, and any electrical or lighting should be inspected by a qualified electrician.
Ice is the other winter concern. A dock deicer can help, but it may not protect against large sheets or blocks of ice.
Dock Checklist Before the Water Drops
Run through this list in the next few weeks, before the main drawdown begins.
- Connections: confirm that the hinges, pins, and hardware linking your dock to the seawall or pier move freely.
- Cables: loosen or extend them so the dock can lower safely, and check for wear and corrosion.
- Anchoring and floats: look over anchoring systems and flotation for damage, and repair or replace anything worn.
- Electrical and lighting: have a qualified electrician inspect the system and correct any issues before winter.
- Power: if it is safe and appropriate, shut off power to the dock when it will not be used for an extended time.
- Loose items: remove or securely store furniture, ladders, and water toys.
- Lake levels: check current levels at Ameren.com/Lake or call the Lake Level Daily Report at (573) 365-9205.
Below Bagnell Dam on the Osage River, Ameren advises removing docks from the river before freezing occurs.
What It Means for Seawalls and Shorelines
Low water exposes parts of the shoreline that stay hidden all summer, which makes winter a good time to look for problems. The lower the lake, the more of your seawall and the ground around it you can see.
Watch for depressions in the soil behind the seawall, and for cracks, movement, or rust stains on the wall itself. Seawall neglect can lead to damage and failure, and the longer you wait, the more expensive the repair can be. If you notice any of these signs, we recommend scheduling an inspection.
Shorelines that are eroding may also need rip rap, which is rock placed along the water’s edge to hold the bank in place and protect your property.
Why Low Water Is a Good Time for Shoreline Work
When the water is down, crews have easier access to the shoreline, which makes winter a practical time for repairs and improvements. Lower water levels can make certain shoreline projects easier by providing better access to areas that are normally submerged. For properties that are hard to reach, our barge and excavator services can bring equipment and materials to the job.
Winter is also the time to plan for next season. New docks, dock additions, swim platforms, boat and PWC lifts, and dock sheds all start with design, drawings, permits, and materials before the build begins. Starting in the off-season gives those steps time, so the project is ready when boating season returns.
How RT Can Help
RT Construction builds, maintains, and repairs docks and shorelines at Lake of the Ozarks. These are the services most useful this time of year:
- Dock repairs, additions, and new dock construction.
- Seawall repair: RT is a member of the Seawall Repair Network, and the only member servicing waterfront locations in Missouri.
- Rip rap and shoreline protection.
- Barge, excavator, and dredging services for projects that are hard to reach.
If you want a second set of eyes on your dock or seawall before the water drops, contact our Lake of the Ozarks office at (573) 240-4049, email info@buildrt.com, or visit buildrt.com to request a free quote. We are located at 29545 Hwy Y in Rocky Mount, Missouri.
St. Louis Office: (636) 357-8385, 851 Pic Parkway, Wentzville, MO 63385
Lake of the Ozarks Office: (573) 240-4049, 29545 State Hwy Y, Rocky Mount, MO 65072
Email: info@buildrt.com | Web: buildrt.com
