The annual drawdown of the Lake Byllesby reservoir to its winter elevation will begin Oct. 1.

The reservoir is gradually lowered 3 feet from the summer elevation to 853.7 feet above sea level. The winter drawdown lowers nearby groundwater levels to accommodate local agricultural needs based on research from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. The DNR requires the drawdown as part of the county’s operating permit.

The drawdown lowers the water to just below the sill of the Byllesby Dam, forming the reservoir. To lower the water level in the reservoir without causing an abrupt change, about 1 inch of water is released daily. The reservoir will remain at its winter level until May 15, when refilling 3 feet to the summer elevation of 856.7 feet above sea level is permitted.

For more information, visit www.dakotacounty.us, search water levels.

Dakota County Public Health offers immunizations Clinics available by appointment at Western Service Center Residents who are uninsured or whose insurance does not cover vaccines can receive flu and other recommended immunizations at upcoming Dakota County Public Health immunization clinics. In addition to the uninsured or underinsured, immunization clinics are open to children enrolled on a Minnesota health care program (Medical Assistance, MinnesotaCare or Prepaid Medical Assistance Program) or who are American Indian or Alaskan Native. There is no cost for the immunizations.

Clinics in October will be by appointment only at the Western Service Center, 14955 Galaxie Ave., Apple Valley. Call 952-891-7999 to schedule an appointment. Clinic dates include: Tuesday, Oct. 6, 1–3:30 p.m.

Tuesday, Oct. 13, 1–3:30 p.m.

Thursday Oct. 15, 9–11:30 a.m.

Tuesday Oct. 20, 4–6 p.m. (flu shot only) Tuesday, Oct. 27, 9–11:30 p.m.

Thursday, Oct. 29, 1–3:30 p.m.

Minors under age 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian or have a signed authorization for another adult to accompany them. Forms and eligibility information are available online at www.dakotacounty. us, search immunization clinics. Please bring all immunization records with you to the clinic.

For more information, call the Immunization Hotline at 952-891-7999.

Lake Byllesby, a popular destination for local area boaters and anglers each year, will be gradually lowered three feet beginning October 1st. The lake is lowered by releasing an inch of water daily. The lowering of the lake helps with flooding in the spring and maintains the needed reservoir over the winter. Photo by Bruce Karnick