Thousands of Arkansans enjoy recreation on the beautiful Hot Springs-area lakes, even in years of draught and floods. Now, water is scarce, and Entergy is responding.

Entergy Arkansas is implementing its Drought Contingency Plan for lakes Hamilton and Catherine in response to drought conditions in the Ouachita River watershed. The plan allows a reduction in the continuous minimum flow normally required from Remmel Dam into the Ouachita River to conserve water in Lake Ouachita.

According to the NOAA’s Palmer Hydrological Drought Index, the Ouachita River watershed in Garland and Hot Spring counties have been in a moderate drought condition since October of this year. “Though we are not in a severe drought conditions yet, many of the surrounding counties are, and we are taking the necessary steps to mitigate the impacts on the area lakes.” said Bobby Pharr, process superintendent for Entergy’s hydro operations.