THE LAKE JOURNAL

The Lake Has a Winter Waterline

Understand seasonal drawdown at Lake of the Ozarks and what to check before winter or a waterfront purchase.

Your summer shoreline can look very different in winter. Drawdown is the planned seasonal lowering of the lake through Bagnell Dam operations.

Fall

About 658 ft

Jan–mid-Feb

Toward 654 ft

Mid-Feb–Apr 1

Near 654 ft

Spring

Gradual rise

These are seasonal guidelines, not guaranteed levels or dates. Weather, upstream releases and dam operations can change actual levels. Ameren’s guide also shows a brief late-December rise toward 659 ft.

654 feet is lake elevation—not the water depth under your dock.

Why lower the lake?

To create room for spring inflows and help reduce spring flooding risk. A lower winter shoreline alone does not establish drought. More shoreline may be exposed, coves become shallower, and floating docks move lower with the water.

Prepare before levels fall

  • Have a dock professional check cables, anchors and flotation.
  • Have an electrician inspect the dock and power.
  • Secure furniture, ladders and toys.
  • Check boat, lift and access clearance.
  • Arrange checks while you are away.
  • Watch for hazards and verify shoreline permits.

Buying waterfront? Ask about winter water.

Request slip and approach-route depths, the lake elevation when measured, and the dock’s history during prior drawdowns.

Ask Holly about waterfront buying View the illustrated one-page guide ↑

Source: Ameren Missouri Lake Level Guidelines (Appendix F), Dock Requirements & Safety, and Lake Level Reports, as cited in the supplied guide dated October 17, 2026. Independent summary; not affiliated with Ameren. Seasonal targets are not a depth forecast.