Posted: Tue, 4 Jan 2011 08:58 PM - 15,306 Readers

By: Heidi Zhou-Castro

Lake Austin's water level will drop 12 feet by February 8.

It’s a plan the Lower Colorado River Authority implemented Monday, at the City of Austin’s request.

According to LCRA officials, lowering the lake will serve two purposes. It will starve nuisance plants like Hydrilla and Duckweed, and temporarily curb the growth of the two invasive species.

Residents on the lake shore will also have a chance to perform maintenance and construction work on normally underwater structures. LCRA officials warn home and business owners to be aware of water levels and not to leave tools near the shoreline.

According to LCRA, the water level could drop faster if the area receives unexpected rainfall.

Refilling the lake is set to begin February 13.