Mark Twain Lake, Missouri, July 30, 2010 - The Clarence Cannon Dam and Mark Twain Lake Project remain open for recreational use. Project employees are monitoring changing lake levels as precipitation continues to fall in the watershed to provide for visitor safety. Major launch facilities and campgrounds are open although some areas such as the John Spalding and Indian Creek beaches are closed temporarily as well as do some smaller access areas. These include the Joanna and Lick Creek Trails and Hunter/Fisherman Accesses Numbers 11 (Rt N), 12, 20 (Hwy FF), 23, 33, 30 (Rt U), 41 (Elk Fork), 50, 53, 54, and the Duane Wheelan Recreation Area.

The lake is currently cresting at 629.0 NGVD. Normal pool elevation is 606.0 NGVD. For comparison purposes, the record lake elevation was set on July 30, 2008 at 640.36 NGVD. High water launch lanes are currently open at Robert Allen, Stoutsville, Indian Creek and the John Spalding Recreation Areas. Boaters will find floating and submerged debris on the lake as the water rises so they are advised to use caution, drive slowly, and wear a life jacket.

To check daily lake levels go to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, St. Louis District, River & Reservoir Daily Report on the web at http://mvs-wc.mvs.usace.army.mil/dresriv.html. Individuals may also contact the Mark Twain Lake Project Office at (573) 735-4097, email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or stop at the office located north of Cannon Dam Monday through Saturday 8 AM - 4:30 PM.