November 2, 2026 – Residents are encouraged to plan ahead for shoreline maintenance and prepare for temporarily lower lake levels.

As part of our ongoing commitment to protecting and maintaining our local water resources, SJWD Water District will conduct a planned drawdown of Lyman Lake this winter. The drawdown is part of our routine watershed management strategy, which includes regular maintenance, monitoring, and inspections to help protect the lakes and rivers that supply our community’s drinking water. The drawdown is scheduled for December 14, 2026, through February 8, 2027, with a goal of lowering Lyman Lake approximately 3 to 5 feet below its normal pool level. During this time, lake levels may fluctuate depending on rainfall and weather conditions.  While SJWD will work to maintain the targeted water level, heavy rainfall or extended wet weather may affect our ability to reach or sustain the planned reduction.

Why Is SJWD Lowering Lyman Lake?

The planned drawdown provides an opportunity for our Water Resources Team to perform important maintenance and inspections that are more difficult to complete when the lake is at its normal level.

During the drawdown, SJWD plans to:

• Survey the shoreline and areas of the lakebed that are not normally visible.
• Exercise and inspect valves and gates at the dam.
• Evaluate shoreline conditions as part of ongoing watershed management efforts.

In addition to supporting SJWD’s maintenance activities, the drawdown provides lakefront property owners with an opportunity to inspect their shorelines and complete permitted maintenance projects.

An Opportunity for Lakefront Property Owners

Lower lake levels can make certain shoreline maintenance projects easier to complete. Residents may use this opportunity to assess erosion, perform shoreline stabilization work, maintain seawalls, or complete approved maintenance on existing marine structures.

All work within the lake’s buffer area requires a permit from SJWD Water District. Residents planning shoreline improvements or maintenance projects are encouraged to contact the SJWD Lake Warden Office well in advance to discuss their plans and obtain the necessary permits.

Residents with permitted docks may perform approved maintenance; however, repair or replacement of dock piers will not be permitted during this drawdown.

Please remember that pushing yard debris, soil, or other materials into the lake is prohibited.

Permit applications are available at the SJWD Lake Warden Office, located at 200 Lyman Lodge Road in Lyman.

What Should Residents Expect During the Drawdown?

While SJWD’s goal is to maintain lake levels approximately 3 to 5 feet below normal, actual conditions will depend on weather patterns and the District’s operational needs. Heavy rainfall may cause lake levels to rise temporarily. Additionally, SJWD must maintain adequate water availability for its drinking water treatment facility throughout the drawdown. Residents planning shoreline maintenance should monitor weather forecasts regularly, particularly when scheduling projects that require lower water levels. Lake levels are expected to begin rising again in early February as the drawdown concludes.

Will Recreational Activities Be Affected?

SJWD does not anticipate significant disruptions to normal winter recreational activities, including fishing. However, some areas of Lyman Lake may become more difficult to navigate because of reduced water depths. The boat landing at Lyman Lake Park is expected to remain open and available during the drawdown. Boaters are encouraged to use additional caution and speak with an SJWD Lake Warden before navigating unfamiliar or shallow areas. Although removing boats from the water is not required, SJWD recommends that residents remove boats and other vessels before the drawdown as a precaution.

Stay Informed Throughout the Process

SJWD Water District is committed to keeping lake residents informed throughout the planned drawdown. Residents are encouraged to subscribe to our Lake Info email list for updates regarding lake conditions, drawdown progress, and other important information.

For questions about permits, shoreline maintenance, or recreational activities, please contact the SJWD Lake Warden Office.

Lake Information and Updates: lakeinfo@sjwd.com

Lake Warden Office: 200 Lyman Lodge Road, Lyman, SC

SJWD Water District: 864-439-4423

We appreciate the cooperation and understanding of our lake residents as we complete this important watershed maintenance effort. By taking a proactive approach to caring for Lyman Lake, we can continue protecting the valuable water resources that serve our community today and for generations to come.