TENNESSEE WILDLIFE RESOURCES AGENCY ISSUES CAUTION AS DROPPING WATER LEVELS EXPOSE HIDDEN HAZARDS
As water levels recede across Tennessee waterways, state wildlife officials are urging boaters to exercise heightened caution on the water.
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) warns that declining water levels are uncovering dangerous underwater obstacles normally hidden beneath the surface. Boaters are encountering newly exposed rocks, tree stumps, sandbars, and floating debris that can cause severe vessel damage or unexpected groundings.
To ensure safety, officials recommend the following precautions:
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Slow Down: Reducing your speed gives you more time to react to hazards and minimizes potential impact damage.
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Watch the Ramps: Exercise extreme care at boat ramps, where low water frequently creates hazardous, deep drop-offs right at the end of the concrete.
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Avoid Unfamiliar Areas: Steer clear of shallow coves and unfamiliar shorelines where hidden obstacles are more likely to lurk.
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Prioritize Safety Gear: Always wear a properly fitted life jacket and leave a float plan with a friend or family member before heading out.
Because shifting water levels can drastically alter otherwise familiar waterways, the TWRA reminds everyone to stay alert, reduce their speed, and boat safely.
