04/28/2026
Ever wonder why lake levels look different across Thurmond, Russell and Hartwell, especially during a drought?
Here’s what’s going on:
The Savannah River system does not rely on local rain alone. It depends on basin-wide rainfall, water that falls across the entire watershed, often far upstream. Even if rain falls at the lake, levels may not rise if the broader basin remains dry.
All three lakes, Hartwell, Russell and Thurmond, are managed as a system using a “guide curve,” a seasonal target range for lake levels that balances flood control, water supply, hydropower, navigation, and fish and wildlife needs. Water is actively managed, it is not simply held in place.
Even during drought conditions, water must be released downstream to maintain river flows for communities, industries and ecosystems. These releases continue even when lake levels are low.
So why does Russell Lake usually stay near full pool?
Richard B. Russell Lake is designed as a re-regulation reservoir. It helps smooth out releases from Hartwell upstream and Thurmond downstream. It operates within a narrower range and is typically kept near full pool to support hydropower efficiency and consistent downstream flows.
Drought operations are triggered when basin conditions reach specific thresholds, not solely based on shoreline conditions. These triggers guide how much water is conserved, how much is released, and how the system responds over time.
To track current lake levels, guide curves and drought status, visit: https://water.usace.army.mil/office/sas
Low lake levels can be frustrating for those who live, work or recreate on the water, but rest assured that every drop of water is managed with the entire river system and all who depend on it in mind.
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