A long weekend, good weather and higher water could make this one of the busiest Independence Days ever at Thurmond Lake.
The forecast through Sunday calls for partly sunny skies with temperatures in the upper 80s to low 90s. A water level that's more than seven feet higher than last year means all boat ramps are open, and it lessens the possibility of damage to props and hulls.
Pam Bugg, the owner of Little River Marina and Family Resort, said people are taking advantage of the extended holiday weekend.
"I'm completely full," she said. "Every cabin is rented out."
Sgt. Doyte Chaffin, of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, said patrols will be increased this weekend because of the expected surge in lake visitors.
"A lot of people, because of the economy, are staying closer to home," he said.
Boaters can expect strict enforcement of safety measures and zero tolerance for boating under the influence of alcohol, Sgt. Chaffin said.
Thurmond Lake is one of the largest man-made lakes east of the Mississippi. The 70,000-acre reservoir has 1,200 miles of shoreline.
Reach Gracie Shepherd at (706) 823-3228 or gracie.shepherd@augustachronicle.com.
BOATING SAFETY TIPS
Department of Natural Resource's regulations can be read at www.goboatgeorgia.com">style="bold">www.goboatgeorgia.com .
- Never swim alone, and if you are a marginal swimmer, wear a flotation device.
- Don't mix alcohol or drugs with boating or swimming.
- Children younger than 10 must wear a life jacket while boating.
- Keep life jackets accessible to everyone.
- Don't swim when you are tired or cold.
- Be aware of hidden dangers such as underwater drop-offs.
Source: Georgia Wildlife Resources Division
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One important safety tip is missing - "Never drive and swim, and always drink with a buddy" Wishing everybody a happy and safe Independence Day! God Bless America!