Spillway gate tests again today

The Army Corps of Engineers conducts more engineering and operations tests again today on spillway gates at the Lake Hartwell Dam.  Tests, at both the Hartwell and Thurmond dams, begin around 10 this morning.  Unlike previous tests conducted at full pool, the test at the Hartwell Dam will have only a few gates open at a time.  At Thurmond, only four of the 23 gates will be tested.  The tests help conserve water in the reservoirs while still meeting minimum requirements.  Areas around the dams normally open to the public will remain open.  But officials warn boaters to be extra cautious downstream because fast-moving, rising water may pose a safety hazard.