Dear GMSC,
Spring is upon us! The days are getting longer, leaves are on the trees, and hummingbirds have returned to the feeders. By the time you read this, it may already feel like summer!
Repairs to the dam are progressing steadily. The contractor is actively restoring the dam’s outer shell, and according to CAW’s most recent public notice, work could take another two months—targeting a return to normalcy near the end of May.
Fortunately, we've still been able to race, though not without some challenges. Please avoid using the leftmost ramp at the long dock—it's currently too shallow, even for short trailers. The right side is deeper and more suitable. Also, a rope has been placed to ferry boats over to the L-dock, where water depths can accommodate boards and rudders. The rope end connected to the short dock has a weight so boats can safely pass over it, and floats midway allow it to be picked up. If you're using the crane, double-check that the rope isn’t in the way.
As you may know, our depth gauges couldn’t register the lowest water levels. CAW is currently estimating the lake to be five feet below pool, though the actual depth is likely greater. This level is being maintained to allow continued work on the dam. If you’ve noticed the USGS gauge isn’t reporting—it's under repair. The sensors are being lowered and recalibrated and should be back online soon.
Many boats were grounded during our historic low around ten feet below normal. Most have since been recovered, but some are still in rough shape. If your slip didn’t get your attention and care over the winter, now’s a good time to inspect and repair it. If you need help repositioning dock foam, don’t hesitate to reach out. The T-dock suffered damage and is scheduled for replacement mid-summer. Until then, please use extra caution when walking or docking there. Ramps also remain steep. Thankfully, the new walkway to D-dock has been a big help and should be back in service soon.
Keep an eye out for the commissioning date of the Kiko's Corner Seawall! In the meantime, make sure to register for the 41st Annual Hawg Wild Regatta, gear up for JLTS, and come out Wednesday evenings for Tiller Time!
Finally, we’re looking to pass along a few key leadership roles mid-year. Some require hands-on training, so now is the perfect time to get involved. Regatta Chair Roger O'Quin is ready to mentor his replacement. We're also seeking a new Social Committee co-chair and a new Harbormaster. If any of these roles speak to you, please contact me—we’d love to have your help.
Fair winds and following seas. See you at the lake!
Warmly,
Yates Phillips
Commodore@GMSC.org
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