Dam Repair Project Completed

       Repairs to the Lake Panorama Dam spillway walls and floor have essentially been completed. The work, which began in October, included repairing concrete problems, re-caulking concrete seams in the spillway walls and floor and replacement of the hydraulic lines that control the gate level.
       Additional work this year will be grading and tree removal in the emergency spillway, some work in the access to the low flow tube that goes under the dam, and emergency power back-up system for the dam gate.
       
       

2003 Personal Watercraft Changes in rules
The LPA Board has voted to require ALL Personal Watercraft operators under age 18 to take the Iowa DNR boating test and have the certificate on their person while operating. The LPA does permit those aged 16 and older to operate jet skis on the lake.
        The requirement will include those riding solo AND those operating the craft with an adult. If the youth is actually operating the craft, even with an adult, the certificate will be required.
        The ruling was in conjunction to the new Iowa State rules, modified by the LPA limits on operator age. Operators with the background of studying and passing the boating test should be much safer operators and have familiarity, not only with personal watercraft, but all of the basic “rules of the road” for boating. This is especially important for safety at Lake Panorama, due to the long and narrow nature of the lake.
        Study and test materials (it’s a mail in test) are presently available at the Lake office. They can also be obtained from the DNR in Des Moines. Youth are encouraged to get the materials early. A local training course will be organized in the spring.
       

Coast Guard Rules Require Children to Wear PFDs
The US Coast Guard has approved an interim rule that will require children under the age of 13 to wear personal floatation devices when riding in boats. The law applies to Iowa and other states which do not have specific requirements for PFD use by children. Iowa State DNR rulings on this issue may require this rule be implemented at Lake Panorama.
       

Road Embargo May Come at Anytime
From year to year the LPA maintenance department has been authorized to initiate a road embargo that restricts the weight of vehicles on LPA streets. Usually this is implemented in February or March, depending on the weather. Cold temperatures keep the ground frozen and help support the rock and seal coat surfaces. However, when spring thawing begins in earnest, much of the base rock of the LPA streets is in a state of softness that could cause road damage.
       Watch for the ROAD EMBARGO signs to be uncovered. The 5-Ton weight limit will be in force until the roads settle. MEMBERS are responsible for contractors and delivery firms that cause road damage with big trucks, or other equipment. Call the LPA office with any questions that you might have at 641-755-2301.
       

Story Contributions Requested

       Members with a flair for writing are invited to call the LPA office and chat with Randy Holl about writing contributions for the Lake Panorama Times.
       Articles needed are those that inform and entertain the reader, with pertinent facts and information about interesting people, places or things relating to Lake Panorama. It is a volunteer task, but is very much appreciated by regular readers.
       
       The office phone is 641 755 2301.