I work for the Corps in the Little Rock District but some things are constant.
a. Go to the project office and get a permit if it is necessary. Vicksburg District requires a separate permit for every lake you detect. Little Rock District does not even require one, so there you go. Find out what the requirement is. The form, if required by the Nashville District, will be available at the project office.
b. Next, talke to the supervisory ranger and see who has been on staff the longest. Chances are, they will have a BUNCH of corporate knowledge about the lake. For instance:
1. Where were the OLD swimming holes/beaches?
2. Any reports of significant loses over the years? If so, where.
c. Ask about swim platforms. In years past, the Corps allowed them. You know, the 20 X 20 platforms anchored in 15-20 feet of water away from the shore. Well, in the name of liability, we got rid of them decades ago. But here's the clincher. They were usually anchored by cable to concreted barrels or concrete anchors. When they were removed, alls was done is that cables were cut. The anchors will still be there, and THAT is where the mother lode will be found (in my humble opinion)--in virgin territory.!
So, go git, 'em. Get familiar with the lake's developmental history. Ask the old timers "Hey, where'd you swim around here way back then?" You might be surprised at the responses (and the goodies) you get.
Knowing the Corps, you'll proably have 18 months or better of good hunting. Just be safe and let us all in on the experience.
Just my two-cent's worth. <><
Arkie John
