The Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) this week began the process of lowering Lake Beseck, according to a letter sent to Middlefield First Selectman Jon Brayshaw.
Brayshaw said residents should take the necessary steps to prepare for the drawdown, including removing docks.
State statute requires the DEEP to lower the lake by six feet in odd numbered years (three feet in even numbered years). The process will be complete by Nov. 1, according to the letter.
After Dec. 31, a three-foot drawdown will be maintained until March 1 and the lake will be restored to "normal water surface elevation" by April 15.
According to the DEEP, lowering the lake will require about 50 hours of supervision and cost the town (taxpayers) between $3,000 to $3,500.
The town is charged regardless of the outcome of the drawdown, including if officials are unable to lower the lake due to weather, the letter says.
