Proposed Recreational Enhancements
Based on comments received from the Recreation Use and Needs Survey conducted for Duke Power in 1999, the respondents indicated a need for picnicking, marinas, swimming areas, fishing areas, gas pumps and restroom facilities on Lookout Shoals Lake. Additional marinas, fishing areas, restrooms, gas pumps and other facilities may be installed as Duke Power begins accepting access area lease requests by non-agency groups for the access areas not leased to the agencies. The non-agency groups had to wait until after June 1, 2000 (the deadline for agencies to submit an application, plan and schedule), before Duke Power would consider accepting their applications.
Based on the population projections and facility standards and estimated acreage needs for the facility class, approximately 8 acres will be needed through 2050 to meet future recreational facility demand. Currently 39 acres of mainland and 47 acres of islands have been reserved for recreational use. The majority of the land is good topographically with good road and lake access.
Some survey respondents said they would like to see increased regulation of jet skies and control of aquatic vegetation. Additional safety items concerning safe use of jet skis and controlling boat speed will be including in the Duke Power's lake map publication. Duke Power has been working with state agencies for several years to watch the aquatic weeds on the lake and take appropriate action when necessary.
The known proposed recreational changes for Lookout Shoals Lake follow:
Duke Power Access
Sharon Access Area, Iredell County, North Carolina
The changes proposed for this site in the next 5 years are:
- Replace the existing boat ramp.
- Install a new loading pier.
- Pave the entrance road and parking lot.
Duke Power Islands
The NCWRC has expressed an interest in managing the islands on Lookout Shoals Lake. A management plan is being developed and may be completed for the SMP filing in 2001.
