Cascade Water Alliance will begin to drop lake levels on Nov. 1.

This fall and winter, unlike previous years, Cascade will maintain the lake at approximately elevation 538 feet through the holidays. Lowering of lake levels during the winter is necessary to ensure protection of dikes and the integrity of the lake. Cascade can maintain this higher than usual winter lake level because there are no dike repairs anticipated this season. However, if any issues arise that require attention and the lake must be drawn down further to address them, homeowners will be notified.

It is expected that the spring refill will begin as early as mid- to late-February with recreational lake levels (minimum elevation 541.5 feet) reached no later than April 15, 2013.

Homeowners are reminded that all boats or other items dependent on recreational lake levels be out of the water prior to Nov. 1.

Homeowners also should note that if they plan any new construction or repair or improvements to existing structures, they must first contact Cascade for a license as well as obtain any other applicable city, county, state or federal permits or approvals.

In 2009, the Lake Tapps Community Council and Cascade established long-term agreements ensuring consistent, seasonal lake levels every year.

For more information on the lake levels visit www.cascadewater.org and www.laketappsnews.org.