Officials Urge Caution on Lake Hartwell as Low Water Levels Create Hazards for Memorial Day Weekend

ANDERSON COUNTY, S.C. — Lake Hartwell is sitting more than seven feet below full pond heading into Memorial Day weekend, prompting officials to warn boaters about shallow areas and hidden hazards that could ruin holiday plans.

Drought Conditions Persist

The Army Corps of Engineers reports the lake remains in a drought after a dry winter and lack of spring rain. The agency estimates roughly a 30-inch rainfall deficit for the upper Savannah River drainage basin since January 2025.

"If you have that favorite cove that you've always played in before, it may not be there now," said Annette Dotson, a park ranger with the Army Corps of Engineers. "It could be dry. There could be hazards lurking just under the water's surface that were not a problem before the last time that you came to the lake when it was in full pool."

Safety Patrols Increased

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (GA DNR) says extra patrols will be out on the water throughout the holiday weekend. Officials are encouraging people to:

• Slow down in unfamiliar areas

• Wear life jackets at all times

• Ensure boats have proper safety equipment before leaving the dock

• Check that navigation lights are working for nighttime operation

"If I can give any advice, nighttime operation, make sure your nav lights are working," said Mark Stephens, a game warden with GA DNR. "That's the number one cause of all of our fatalities at night is there are no nav lights on the boat. Just be aware of your surroundings at all times."

Free Safety Inspections This Weekend

The Department of Natural Resources is offering free boating safety inspections this weekend, checking life jackets, registration, and other required equipment. Boaters will not receive a ticket if something isn't right, but will need to fix the problem before hitting the water.

Inspection locations:

• Saturday: Twin Lakes Landing on Lake Hartwell and at Lake Greenwood

• Monday: South Cove Landing on Lake Keowee

Business Impact

Rising fuel costs are creating additional challenges for lake visitors and business owners. Steve Pietrykowski, a fishing guide who operates Fishski Business LLC, said the increased costs are affecting his operation.

"It might be $100 extra in gas a week that I'm spending probably for my business," Pietrykowski said. He said he is trying not to pass the increase onto his clients and hopes costs come down before peak season.

Despite the low water levels and higher fuel costs, officials say boat ramps remain open and they are expecting a busy start to the summer season.

Stay safe on the water this Memorial Day weekend, Anderson! 🚤🌊