The Lake Tapps reservoir in Washington is getting ready for the warmer months. The Cascade Water Alliance (CWA) has announced that the spring refill will begin on February 15. This process ensures the lake reaches safe and usable levels for boating, fishing, and other activities by mid-April.
Why the Water Level Drops in Winter
Every winter, CWA lowers the water level in Lake Tapps. This isn’t just routine — it’s done for a reason:
- To ensure dike stability during wet months
- To allow for important maintenance work
Once winter is over, CWA begins refilling the lake to prepare for the spring and summer recreational season.
Target Water Levels for Spring and Summer
From April 15 to September 30, Cascade maintains the reservoir between 541.5 feet and 543 feet. These levels support various water sports and lakeside activities.
According to Cascade, they do not expect any delays in reaching 541.5 feet by April 15, which is the agreed seasonal level.
Important Guidelines for Lakefront Property Owners
CWA has issued a reminder to all residents living around Lake Tapps. If you plan to make any changes or add new features to your property that sits on CWA land, you must get approval first. This includes:
- Bulkheads
- Docks
- Boat lifts
- Boat ramps
- Boathouses
Make sure you get a license from Cascade before starting any construction or modification.
Plan for High Water Level
Another important point — residents should remember that CWA has the legal right to raise the lake up to 543 feet, even though the usual minimum is 541.5 feet.
In fact, once every year, CWA raises the water level to 543 feet on purpose. This is done to help property owners understand exactly where the high-water line lies. If you’re building or upgrading a bulkhead, be sure to take this into account, or you may face problems later when water levels rise.
What Lake Users Should Do Now
If you live near Lake Tapps or use the reservoir often, here’s what you can do to get ready:
- Finish property work early: Get your docks and boats in shape before April.
- Apply for permits in advance: Don’t wait until the last minute.
- Be water-aware: Remember that the lake will rise to 543 feet once a year — plan your projects accordingly.
The annual refill is a routine but important part of keeping Lake Tapps safe, stable, and fun for everyone who enjoys it.
