Hanna Expresses Concerns about Water Draw-Down Changes at Blanchard Dam

HARRISBURG – In an effort to garner additional feedback, state Rep. Mike Hanna, D-Clinton/Centre, encourages residents to attend a public workshop being hosted by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Susquehanna River Basin Commission on Wednesday, Aug. 30 from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Howard Elementary School, 255 School St., Howard.

Hanna said the event, which is being called the “Project Modifications for the Improvement of the Environment,” will feature proposed changes at Foster Joseph Sayers Dam and Reservoir, more familiarly known as the Blanchard Dam.

According to the SRBC, the ultimate goal is to have a feasibility study conducted to explore potential alternatives for managing the existing fall draw-down for the benefit of both in-lake and downstream aquatic life and resources.

In addition, according to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the study will determine if operation of the reservoir, including water release protocol, can be modified to improve the quality of the environment both in the reservoir itself and in the downstream ecosystem. Currently, the reservoir is drawn down 20 feet in late fall and winter and returned to normal pool level by late spring.

The agencies anticipate the feasibility study will take approximately 18 to 24 months to complete.
Hanna said many of his constituents believe that lowering water levels will impact recreation at the lake, including boating and swimming. He agrees.

“Foster Sayers Lake and the surrounding Bald Eagle State Park must remain the recreational gem it is today,” Hanna said. “At this time, I believe lowering the lake could cause quality-of-life issues environmentally and loss of economic activity.”

Hanna said the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers cannot and should not consider any proposals that are detrimental to communities. “I encourage everyone to get their voices heard by joining me on August 30.”

Residents who are interested in attending should pre-register by emailing Hilary Hollier at hhollier@srbc.net or contacting John Balay at by phone at 717-238-0423 or by email at jbalay@srbc.net.
Sayers Lake, popular among anglers and boaters, is a 1,730-acre impoundment on Bald Eagle Creek at Bald Eagle State Park, 30 minutes from Lock Haven.