I stopped by Sweetwater Dam and talked to one of the employees doing "boring" in the dam. This is in preparation for preliminary work addressing the Sweetwater Spillway. He had positive comments about the results of the "boring samples" and the condition of the dam. At today's site, they were at 140 feet down and had hit rock. Otherwise they had encountered
The sound of rocks hitting your roof then rolling off....the "plops" in the water near the shore......it's acorns! Be careful walking on an incline.....it's like walking on marbles! It is an acorn year. Seems like every other year the oak trees produce acorns. This year's crops are outstanding! If you have a hickory tree, it's even worse. Hickory nuts can dent the metal of a car!
Sunday, September 20th was the last 90 degree day of late. Many people took advantage of the warm weather and warm water. Swimmers, kayaks, boats, kids swinging on rope swings, t'was great. Monday the 21st brought 60 degree weather and and overcast skies.
There have been numerous new boats appear on the lakes this summer. I've noticed a number of new 150 HP pontoons on both lakes. One group of new boats that have peaked my interest is 3 new vintage Starcraft "retro" boats powered by 25 HP Mercury motors. Looks like the owners are having fun with them.
September brings the best weather and enjoyment of the lakes. Labor Day weekend was absolutely the best!
For quite a few years I've been doing "water clarity" tests and water samples for the Indiana Clean Lakes project funded by grants at Indiana University. (GO IU!) Approximately 45 lakes in Indiana participated in the 2026 sampling. This year the water clarity test have been a bit disappointing I think because of so much rain. Finally yesterday, I did a test and the black and white disc disappeared at 20 feet. Pretty good! If you want printed results, you can stop at Sweetwater Realty and ask for a free copy.
The long anticipated day finally arrived! Lots of work from volunteers and helpers all over. Sweetwater Beach was busy with food trucks, boat displays, business tents, silent auction, CSLOA merchandise for sale, bands, and lots of people. An afternoon shower brought many inside but lots of swimmers stayed in the water! The ski cleared up in the evening for the annual terrific fireworks display.
