Deerpoint Reservoir Drawdown to Continue until March 31, 2019.

Panama City, Florida – Bay County Utilities Services will extend the annual drawdown of Deerpoint Reservoir until March 31 to assist the state in its efforts to mitigate flooding issues for property owners in northern Bay County and Washington County.

The drawdown is conducted each year in cooperation with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and aims to decrease nuisance aquatic vegetation, consolidate and release nutrients from the exposed shoreline sediments, improve fishing and boating access, and enhance fish and wildlife habitat. This year’s drawdown began Nov. 26 and was set to end on Feb. 28.

However, as a result of Hurricane Michael, a significant number of fallen trees and hurricane-related debris has impeded the water flow of Econfina Creek, Bear Creek, and Cedar Creek into Deerpoint Reservoir. This, coupled with record rainfall, has caused high water levels and flooding issues for many area property owners.

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) is currently working to clear the debris and blockages from these waterways, but the effort will take time due to the volume of debris and access issues. Thus far, FDEP has removed 18,400 cubic yards of debris at a cost of more than $2.8 million from Econfina Creek alone.

In order to assist FDEP and provide as much upstream relief as possible during debris removal, Bay County will extend the drawdown to March 31. While a longer drawdown may impact recreational activities, fish habitat, and vegetative growth within the reservoir, each agency agrees that human health and safety take precedent. 

Press Release from Bay County