Friends of the Lake - Philpott

04/17/2024

Trilliums and Indian Paintbrush off Stoneybrook rd heading to the base of Philpott dam

10/31/2023

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will be reducing flows on the Smith River starting tomorrow NOV 1st due to decreasing lake levels. Currently flow rates are at 250 cfs and the reduction is expected to drop the flows to between 80-90 cfs. Hopefully no lower as this is brown trout breeding season and low water can adversely affect survival for both trout and macro invertebrates. As lake levels rise, and if we get some precipitation, the flows may be increased again but for the next few weeks, expect lower water levels on the river. ,

10/25/2023

One of our areas best fall views, enjoy it today !

08/18/2023

Hope to see all you River Rats tomorrow at the 15th annual Smith River Fest, Smith River Sports Complex, 1000 Irisburg rd, Axton, VA. Mud Run, River race, kayak and paddle board demo pool, animals, magic, vendors, food, music and more. The river levels will be good for paddling all day and we should see morning flows around 360 cfs, (2.1 ft) with the City of Martinsville opening up a gate at 11 am to give us some extra water to facilitate the river race. So if you want an easy leisurely float, start in the morning and paddle your way down to the complex. If you want something a little faster, but still good for the novice, then get on around noon. The river race will begin at 1:30, safety briefing at 1:15, so plan your paddle accordingly. There will be Henry County Parks and Rec shuttles throughout the day from Sports Complex, South Martinsville, Marrowbone Creek and Mitchell Bridge. Make sure you know where you are going and how you are getting back ! Check the Smith River Fest FB page for more info and schedule of events or go to the webstite:

10AM to 4PM

05/04/2023

Spring means green !

11/07/2022

Art in Nature Auction Starts NOW!

Monday 11/7 through Sunday 11/13
DRBA's Annual Art in Nature online Auction starts soon with over 60 items to bid on!
Thank you to the craftspeople, artists and generous donors for making this year our best yet!

Click here at Noon on 11/7 to start bidding: https://www.charityauctionstoday.com/auctions/2022-art-in-nature-auction-34573

100% of proceeds will help DRBA protect our rivers and streams, and provide environmental education and outdoor experiences for thousands of youth.

11/04/2022

05/29/2022

*WARNING* we just got word that the Corps is planning on bumping up flows from Philpott dam today to 900 cfs, possibly around noon. This level is recomendrd for experienced boaters ONLY. For comparison : the flows have been averaging around 250 cfs through the past month up until the rain, which caused the Corps to increase release flows to around 570 cfs. If you paddled yesterday, it was around 500-600. Todays flow increase will also increase the speed of the river which is dramatic compared to yesterdays flow. Once the flow starts, it takes about 2 1/2 hrs to reach Bassett. Another 1:30 to reach the Great Rd. The danger is in the speed. new strainers are in the river after the storms so if you can’t quickly control your boat, you can be in trouble quick. Use caution and do not exceed your boating capabilities.

05/26/2022

Fishing line left on the banks or hanging in trees can be deadly to wildlife. We all get hung up now and then but even though you might loose a lure or a hook, do your best to remove all the line that broke off. Be responsible, don’t leave your line hanging in a tree or in a wad on the bank, dispose of properly.

05/19/2022

The ever beautiful Philpott

04/12/2022

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing one of our founding members, Dr. Lindley Butler. The DRBA family is heartbroken today and our deepest sympathy and prayers are with T, his family, and all who knew and loved him. How lucky we are to have known someone so special that makes saying goodbye so hard.